There was a point last year when I felt exhausted and jaded—then realized just three days had passed since the semester’s beginning: Well, I thought, this is a good sign. Everyone has moments when they feel seemingly absurd amounts of stress (if you don’t, please share how), but some stress can be healthy. So how does a collegiette navigate the madness of classes, friends, and extracurriculars?
1. Keep Physically Healthy
I know, I know. You’ve heard this suggestion thousands of times already. Yet maintaining a nightly eight hours of sleep, eating decently, and exercising at least every now and then will not only pay off in the long run but has been proven to dramatically aid academic performance. “That sounds nice,” you’re probably thinking, “but I don’t have time for it”. Don’t fall into the trap. Some easy ideas can be found here and here.
2. Keep Mentally Healthy
Some advertisements brand their products as “self-care!!!!”, but you don’t have to spend money to take care of yourself. Talking to a friend, hallmate, RA, or roommate, even about something inane, provides a quick and usually fun break. Doing something you enjoy, from painting to watching Netflix, isn’t always slacking off. And mindfulness techniques, despite their somewhat hippie connotation, can really work. Setting aside even five minutes to journal, unplug, or reflect on your day makes a huge difference. Even counting ten deep breaths helps to ground you. Finally, most schools offer counseling services, and the experience is much less awkward and much more widespread than people think. Davidson’s Counseling Center offers appointments Monday-Friday as well as a 24/7 phone line for emergencies.
3. Talk to Your Professors
A lot of collegiettes (myself included) get nervous about asking for study help or extensions on assignments. In truth, though, 99% of professors would rather you come to them than turn in work that doesn’t reflect your ability. It’s why office hours exist! Reach out when you’re struggling with something, and, at minimum your responsibility will make a good impression on your teacher. The same principle goes for coaches and organizers.
4. Go Outside
At Davidson, we’re blessed with beautiful scenery. Taking a walk or run around campus or town doesn’t take long and is a nice change from hurrying from building to building. You may even see some wildlife or meet someone new. Alternatively, try eating a meal or doing some reading outdoors.
5. Find a Community of Support
No one can get by without help every now and then. Coming to college often means finding your place in a context entirely different from that of your high school, family, or hometown, But the task doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds: in addition to friends, reach out to RAs, mentors, counselors, as well as coaches and professors. Getting to know people around school creates a well of advice and help to draw from when you need it—not to mention that you’ll probably make some new friends while you’re at it.
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