My first few weeks at Tulane have been crazy to say the least–between the stress of balancing schoolwork and social life, the numerous illnesses spreading rapidly around campus, and the overwhelming number of new experiences, I’m feeling less and less healthy. Though I just got to New Orleans, here are a few things that have helped me back onto my feet so far.
1) IMMERSE BUT REACH OUT
Immerse yourself in school. Don’t call your sister, best friend, or boyfriend from home every day—you won’t be able to be here, fully soaking up your ridiculously-overwhelming new life. BUT, then take a minute to call your mom and friends. Catch up, laugh, share stories—they need it just as much as you do. Finding a balance is key.
2) KEEP IT REAL
Just stay true to yourself. As easy as it may be, changing habits or parts of yourself to “fit in” will quickly grow old and feel way too foreign.
3) ROUTINE
Developing some kind of routine has been vital to my health. After a week of aimlessly running from place to place and going out far too often, I needed to settle down. Getting into a routine of “class, homework, gym, dinner, chill-time,” has made my days feel a lot less chaotic.
4) VITAMINS, WATER, AND VEGGIES
Listen to your mom on this one. Staying hydrated may seem obvious but I’ve noticed that despite carrying around my cute glass water bottle, I’ve been forgetting to drink. Try to eat your veggies, and take those vitamins religiously—they help more than you’d think…while my friends have collectively gathered pinkeye, strep, and a nasty cold, I haven’t gotten sick yet.
5) SLEEP
Get your sleep. Don’t stay up and out every day of the week just because others are (and they really are!)—you’ll quickly realize you can’t keep up and the days after will be dreadful. Waking up feeling well-rested and energetic will be well worth it.
6) BUT HAVE FUN
People will tell you what to and what not to do, but you’ll always be healthiest if you’re happy. If you want to spend that extra day at Voodoo or eat that whole pizza, DO IT. You’re here to work hard but also for some amazing experiences, so don’t be too hard on yourself. At the end of the day, each small decision you make won’t have a lasting impact on you, so have fun!