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10 Ways to Adjust to a New School Year

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Siena chapter.

 

The beginning of a new college experience is an exciting time in a young woman’s life. You’re ready to meet new friends, of course, find some new campus cuties. However let’s get real here, the beginning of a new year can be nerve racking and anxiety-filled. You are no longer on summer vacation and your grades become your number one priority along with getting involved on campus, playing college sports, maintaining connections with friends, researching and applying for internships, going on interviews, getting your school work done, going to bed at a reasonable hour—how does a collegiate do it all? All of this seems like a lot to handle because it is! Don’t worry though; there are ways you can make your back to school experience a breeze.

1. Plan it out. 

Buying a planner is a great way to stay organized and on top of your daily schedule. By writing out exactly all the plans you have, you’ll be able to keep track of all your coursework commitments and of course, your social calendar!

2. Take note.

Keep all of your professor’s information such as office hours and emails in a note on your phone. If you ever need to see your professor, you have the information right on your smart phone.

3. Label just about anything.

Label your folders or notebooks with the class title so you’re not writing in your physics notebook during English.

4. Nourish your body with healthy food.

In college there is a lot going all the time, it is important to keep your body healthy so you don’t become run down or sick. Having a banana with your sandwich during lunch or a salad for dinner is an easy way to get the nutrients you need. In dining halls they usually have a vegetarian meal and bowls that are filled with fruit for you to enjoy. Reaching for those healthy options makes a huge difference to your health, so try your best to eat fruits and vegetables every day.

5. Remain hydrated

Start by drinking a bottle or two of water a day. Keeping your body hydrated is important to your health. If you want some flavor, try drinking tea instead of flavored water. Flavored water usually has unneeded sugar and calories, but tea has the ability to boost your exercise endurance, keeps your body hydrated and

6. Take 10 minutes everyday for ‘you time’.

During the semester it’s very easy to get carried away with everything that is going on around you. Sometimes you can forget that you’re in college to focus on your future and your goals.  Set an alarm on your phone to let yourself listen to your favorite band, read from a magazine or book, or go for a walk outside. Allowing your ten minutes everyday to reflect on your choices, goals and health is a great was to keep your self grounded and focused.

7. Get your body moving!

Working out in college is a great way to relieve stress and keep your body healthy. Try going for a 20-minute walk around campus with your some of your hall mates, or going for a long run at your college’s gym.

8. Call your loved ones.

Make time one day a week to call the people you miss the most from back home (friends, parents, or even your dog) because they probably miss you as well. Your loved ones will be there to offer you advice and make you smile.

9. Enjoy your college experience!

It can be difficult getting adjusted to college life but don’t forget you are allowed to have fun and surround yourself with good people by joining clubs on campus, or an intermural sports team or attending a campus charity event.  

10. Most importantly be yourself.

Don’t forget who you are and who you want to become.

 

Nora Gleason is a Siena College Class of 2016 alumna. She studied Creative Arts during her time at Siena.