Starting a new semester is always a big adjustment, no matter how many times you’ve done it. It can be overwhelming to see all the opportunities surrounding you, especially when you first start college. While I am in no way an expert, I think I’m slowly beating the inevitable burnout every semester a little better each time. But don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my fair share of crashouts so far, and it’s only month two.
google-maxxing
As silly as it is, I always underestimated the number of applications that Google has, and just how easy they are to use. Before college, the most I used was my Gmail and calendar so I could write my work schedule down. But now? I’m branching out to use every tool that makes sense to.
While it’s basic, using the calendar to your advantage is essential as a college student. I know people who don’t use a schedule, which blows my mind. I can’t imagine how I’d get through my week without everything written out in one place. Especially with the recently extended color coding with over 24 default hues, everything can be easy to see while also aesthetically pleasing.
The newest addition that I am obsessed with is the tab group accessory. Most college students have to keep a gazillion tabs open for certain classes and extracurriculars and deleting them leaves a neverending trail trying to get back to where you started. Having a separate tab group is a game changer. I personally like to have all of my syllabi in one tab group so I can keep track of all of my assignments. I also use the groups for my writing and producing so it all doesn’t get mixed up, the joys of print and broadcast.
Building on another new(ish) feature, is the tasks option. I don’t own a MacBook, so keeping up with a to-do list on all of my devices is impossible. Having an app that I can pull up on my phone and on my laptop is the perfect thing for a college screenager, which is inevitable.
My only wonder is, what will Google roll out next to help me organize my life even better?
making sleep a priority
If I am not well rested, it always feels like there’s no point trying to catch up on my homework. While I’m sure that’s not entirely healthy, mental and physical well being should be a main priority. If you aren’t well rested, it can make everything else harder. So as silly as it sounds, I schedule naps. I’m very much a night owl, so ending up with an adequate amount of sleep feels impossible. This is why I have to use a calendar and I block out time for a nap and then get to look forward to it during my 2pm class.
Planning around a personal bedtime can also be super helpful. Even though it’s not something I do, friends that I know who do have a much more balanced sleep cycle, which is always important. A warm drink can help get you in the sleepy mood as well. I always enjoy tea, but hot chocolate weather is around the corner, which could work too.
deciding on extracurriculars
Even though the semester may be in full swing, it’s always important to reevaluate all the organizations and responsibilities you’ve committed to. Personally, I prefer to get involved in co-curriculars that are focused on my future career so I can work on my craft. As a journalism major, I write articles and work on the TV shows for the school’s broadcasting station in many roles.
One thing that is crucial about deciding on clubs is seeing how they conflict with your overall schedule. It’s common for many clubs to meet around the same time, leaving you to decide which one you plan to prioritize. While it isn’t always the most enjoyable part of clubs, it helps you decide which activities are worth committing to so you don’t overextend yourself.
learning to say no
When picking and choosing co-curriculars, it comes to the decision of what to dedicate your time to. This unfortunately includes hanging out with friends and doing fun things that might not include schoolwork. I really struggle with this. Pausing homework on the weekend to go downtown can be nice, but the work will come back to haunt you on Sunday night.Â
Prioritizing your mental health and hanging out with others is super important, but it’s sometimes hard to find the right balance. I love to end a school day and go watch a movie with friends, even if I have a paper due the next morning. When I do that, I end up staying up late to finish the paper and then I’m exhausted for class in the morning. It commonly leads to a snowball effect. Make sure you plan on some homework nights with friend hangouts in between, serving your academic wellbeing while also helping your mental being.
be realistic with yourself
At the end of the day, make sure you’re staying practical about what is doable. In theory, doing all of these things is great but they may not always be realistic. Everyone is different in what works best for them. I prefer a digital calendar while others may like a physical one better. Maybe napping isn’t another person’s thing. The main idea is to start from where you are. If there are struggles that are noticeable in everyday college life, meet yourself where you’re at. Make sure to reach out to friends or school programs that are built to help you succeed. Places like the academic support center and the center for counseling and psychological services are there to assist you as best they can. No one is perfect and everyone has their own personal struggles when it comes to balancing college life, so don’t be discouraged if you are in a different place as someone else.