I know you’ve heard this at least a million times before: A new school year means a fresh start. This advice often finds its way out one ear as easily as it found its way into the other. Without realizing, we soon find ourselves reverting back to our regular ways and bad habits. As a fellow collegiette, I want to remind you that you only get four years to make the most of your college experience. And we might be the luckiest college girls of all because we get to experience these amazing years in Boulder of all places, so please don’t let this year pass by without pushing yourself to be your best and making it memorable. Here are a few ideas to start the year off right:
1. Catch up with friends! Summer break is almost three-and-a-half months long, and if you’re anything like me, you’re dying to hang out with your crew. Catch up with them by talking about your summers over some of the amazing Boulder food you’ve been missing. Don’t let a different living situation cause distance in your friendships.
2. GET OUTSIDE! Okay seriously? I hope this is obvious and that you’re already doing this without my advice because we live in one of the most beautiful places ever. Hike, bike, walk, run, rollerblade, unicycle – I don’t really care how you do it – just get outside. My suggestion would be a hike at Chautauqua; you’re sure to have an amazing view.
3. Go to the Rocky Mountain Showdown in Denver! Cheer on our Buffs as they kick some CSU butt! The game is on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 5 p.m., at Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium in Denver. SKO BUFFS!
4. Get organized! This is a big one, but it’s also super easy to let slide. Two simple, very helpful ways to stay organized are to get a planner and to keep your room clean. You’ll be thankful you have a planner when your paper is ready to be turned in on time while other people in your class are freaking out the day before it’s due because they forgot. And as for your room, it’s so much more relaxing to come home to a clean space after a stressful day of classes than to one that has clothes and clutter everywhere.
5. Get to know your professors! This can be a little intimidating, especially if it’s a big lecture. You have to remember though that these people are here because they want to help you learn and they are passionate about what they are teaching. Your professors are some of your biggest allies in regards to your academic career and can definitely lend you a helping hand when you’re totally confused about a big paper or test. Trust me on this one; put your nervousness aside and take the time to get to know the people who are preparing you for the real world.
6. Try something new! College is four years dedicated to learning and trying to figure out who you are. This applies to all aspects of your life, not just in the sense of academics or a career. Of course we grow and learn more about ourselves throughout our entire lives, but college is a period of time designed specifically for growth and that is such a gift. Use this time to try things you’ve always wanted to do and things you’re not sure about. You’ll learn some of the most valuable lessons about yourself. Who knows? You could even end up with a newly discovered passion.
I hope this helps inspire you to make it the best year yet; good luck!