1. Organization Is Important: Developing a routine to improve upon the neatness in your dorm and in the classroom may seem pedantic; however, doing so will make your life so much easier. Here are some tips that I have found effective:
- Making your bed each morning is a great way to commence each day because if nothing else was done that day, at least you accomplished something. Moreover, it really can change the environment of your dorm. I found that a neat and tidy space makes it easier for me to accomplish work and stay focused.
- 3 words. To Do Lists. Writing down tasks and chores in a list format and keeping them displayed somewhere visible is a great way to stay on track with obligations. Moreover, it feels pretty good to check off the things you've accomplished.
- Calendars are another great way to remind yourself of events/tasks on a given day. Personally, I keep one calendar to write down important events (exams, club meetings etc.) and another, more pedantic calendar that blocks out each day by the hour (including when to eat/study/nap etc.).
2. Don't Wait Until The Last Minute
Procrastination was so high school. In college, nobody is going to nag you to complete your assignments or study in advance for exams. Although I was once the queen of procrastination, I've since retired and decided to get a head-start on work by completing assignments in advance. And let me tell you - the latter is so much more gratifying and the decrease in stress is a huge benefit.
3. Get Involved
The most common regret I've heard from those who've graduated college is that they did not take advantage of the opportunities their school offered. College is a great place to learn more about yourself and your passions in life; the best way to do so is by getting involved! Join clubs, try out for things, or anything else you'd want to do.
4. Balance is Key
Anything in excess is going to be detrimental. It is essential to balance academics with social life so that grades and happiness can be maintained simultaneously.
5. Develop a Routine
At college, it's easy to fall into the unrhythmic patterns of staying up late, napping at odd hours, pulling all-nighters before an exam, etc. By planning your days and nights, it'll be easier to fit in daily tasks and therefore, keep them from compiling. My current routine is listed below:
- Wake up
- Turn on jazz music
- Make the bed
- Brew a cup of coffee and watch the news
- Get ready and go to classes
- Do homework/study
- Social activities (club meetings, going out, etc.)
