As college students, we try to sleep as much as we can (often finding that the time to do so is quite nonexistent). But what if the minimal time that we are granted to sleep offered a bit of personality insight? As it turns out, studies show that the position in which a person sleeps corresponds to certain personality traits. And to add a slight twist, I would even say that perhaps, these common sleep positions can correspond with certain majors here at BU (though obviously, what I think isn’t necessarily set in stone!) Find your sleep position below and consider whether it matches your personality, even if only a little.
The Fetal Position (41% of sleepers) – Fetal position sleepers can be shy and sensitive. They have a tendency towards worry and anxiety. But they are very organized. Don’t be fooled by their tough exterior, as they often have soft interiors. They take time to warm up to people, but once they do, they become relaxed and ultimately more social than most.
I’d imagine that this could be a common sleep position for SMG students. Going through CORE is sure to bring any SMG student anxiety and worry. But as a business major, I’d presume most are somewhat organized and highly social. I’d also say that a tough exterior is necessary for such an ambitious student if they want to be a strong leader, conduct business properly, and get things done.
The Log Sleeper (15%) – A log sleeper lies on their side with their legs straight and both arms at their sides. They are easy-going and trustworthy. However, the log sleeper is sometimes naïve and prone to gullibility because they easily trust others. But this sleeper likes good company and can certainly give it in return.
Perhaps, CAS majors fit the description of the log sleeper. I have often found these students to be the life of the party, as they are easy to get along with and like to have a good time. I have even found them to be people who try to make sure others have a good time as well. As far as gullibility goes, I can’t say for sure. But I’d vouch for CAS majors having easy-going personalities.
The Yearner (13%) – This sleeper sleeps on their side with their arms outstretched as if they are attempting to grasp something in front of them. The yearner is a slow decision maker, but once they do make a decision, they can be stubborn. They often exhibit cynical attitudes, but they are open minded and open to taking on what the day has to bring.
I associate the yearner with an artsy, creative type. That being said, perhaps the yearner sleep position is characteristic of a CFA student. I’d guess that when it comes to their craft, they often take time before reaching a final decision on where their project is going. But once they know what they want, you could never talk them out of a decision they’ve made concerning their creativity and expression. CFA students I have known have also been very open minded and receptive to new ideas and opinions.
The Soldier Sleeper (8%) – This sleep position is characterized by lying on one’s back with the arms close at the sides of the body. The soldier sleeper is quite quiet and reserved. They have very high standards for themselves and others. They are also very disciplined. You’ll find that they are the strong, but silent types.
I’ll take a shot and say that an ENG major is a soldier sleeper. I think we can all agree that engineering requires discipline and focus. Though I think ENG majors can be social, I could definitely see them as being a bit laid back and reserved in a social setting–and let’s not forget about those high expectations. From my experiences, ENG majors tend to be overachievers.
The Freefaller (7%) – The Freefaller sleeps on their stomach with their arms either at right angles above them or above their head towards their pillow. This sleeper tends to feel anxious about getting tasks done. They are sensitive and do not like criticism. The Freefaller likes to be in control, but they do not like extreme situations.
I’d like to think that many of my fellow COM majors are freefallers. We work in a field that’s all about deadlines and that’s enough to make anyone anxious. We can appreciate feedback and we do value the opinions of others, as it does come along with the territory. But that doesn’t mean we like to be criticized about our work. Don’t do that.
The Starfish (5%) – The starfish sleeper sleeps on their back with their arms spread out to the side or alongside their heads. They can be a little introverted and dislike being the center of attention, which makes them good listeners. They often go out of their way to offer assistance to those in need instead of wanting the focus on themselves. Starfish sleepers tend to make friendship a priority.
My BU experience has led me to believe that SAR students would be likely to sleep in the Starfish position. One of my closest friends at BU is in SAR and is definitely the one you would turn to when you need advice or someone to talk to. She is always willing to lend an ear and help you with what you’re going through, never putting a lot of emphasis on herself. Majors and concentrations within SAR, by nature, in my opinion, seem to focus on the care and needs of others.