Living in Miami is something most people dream about. Now, attending the University of Miami is not only a dream, but also an incredible accomplishment. The city of Miami is definitely not short of sunshine, beaches, and nightlife. However, as a UM student, it’s also very easy to get caught in the whirlwind of “living in Miami” and get distracted from what we’re actually here for: school. It starts with skipping an early morning lecture for the first time, or forgetting to submit an assignment by 11:59 and thinking one late assignment is fine, or just struggling and having an occasional academic crashout. Everyone learns pretty quickly that balancing school, a social life, and your mental health is a lot easier said than done.
As a University of Miami student myself, I’ve definitely had my days where I skipped a night out with friends to study; or vice versa, where I decided to go out and push my homework back just one more day (but it ends up being late). There are always times when it feels like my whole world revolves around Canvas and figuring out which exam I need to study for next. But in my time here at UM, I have learned the best memories come from squeezing some fun into the chaos of being an undergrad.Â
 “Making the most of your Miami day” doesn’t mean you need an elaborate itinerary and schedule day by minute, and you do NOT have to spend hundreds of dollars in one night. I actually advise that you don’t! Sometimes you just need to be open-minded and willing to try something new, and some good time management skills.Â
 I’m a firm believer that starting your morning right sets the tone for the rest of your day. Whether that means getting your morning matcha or coffee, heading to a workout class, or actually making it to your early morning lecture, giving yourself some extra time in the morning makes all the difference. I hate feeling like I’m in a rush, especially in the morning. So when I have time to get ready, I look and feel good for the day.
 One of my favorite things about Miami is that there’s always somewhere new to try. Instead of getting Starbucks every morning, switch it up and try a cute, smaller spot and support a local cafe. Honey Veil, the Matcha Bike, and Cafe LoCoh are conveniently located on campus. Maybe try one of these out one day. Or, if you’re on a college student budget, don’t underestimate how creative you can get in the dining hall. Whether that is making a “homemade” iced coffee or coming up with a fire food combination. I recommend ordering a chicken patty, adding maple syrup, and sandwiching it between two waffle pieces. 10/10!
 When you live 20 minutes from the beach, obviously we all wish every day could be a beach day. But when you have classes, work, and what feels like a never-ending to-do list, that simply is not possible. However, that doesn’t mean your day has to feel like an endless cycle of responsibilities.
 Instead of sticking to the same exact routine every day, try changing things in your day-to-day. Try finding a new study spot, grabbing lunch with a friend between classes, or maybe even reading your textbook by the pool. Something as simple as stepping outside for some fresh air can be the perfect reset after a long lecture. I know it’s tempting to go straight home after class and rot in bed for the rest of the day, but sometimes getting out and doing something small makes you feel so much better. You will feel so much more productive trying new things and it’ll make the day feel so much lighter.Â
 College moves so quickly, and it’s really easy to fall into the mindset that you have to finish absolutely everything on your to-do list before you’re allowed to have any fun. I’ve learned during my time here that finding little pockets in your schedule to do something you enjoy makes the day so much better. Having something to look forward to each day makes your day so much easier and helps a lot with the stress.Â
 The University of Miami has so many resources for students to explore as well. We are fortunate to have access to all these resources, and I think sometimes we forget to actually use them. Whether you’re struggling in a class, preparing for an exam, or trying to figure out what you want to do after graduation, there are so many people and resources here to help you.
 Personally, I think one of the most important things I’ve learned in college is that you really do have to learn how to ask for help. I know how easy it is to convince yourself that you’ll just figure everything out on your own, especially when you’re juggling multiple difficult classes. I seriously advise going to office hours! Our professors are people too, just try and connect with them.Â
 Another campus resource I think everyone should take advantage of is the Herbert Wellness Center. Between classes, exams, work, and trying to maintain some sort of social life, it’s so easy to put your physical health on the back burner. I know everyone has heard of the “freshman 15”, and it is very real! There are so many free classes and machines in the UM gym. Of course, it can be a little overwhelming, but make sure to find time to move your body, even if it is just going for a walk.Â
 Beyond academics and fitness, there are also so many opportunities to get involved on campus. JOIN A CLUB! We have so many clubs and organizations on campus. Even if you’re nervous, or it has nothing to do with your major, as long as you’re interested in it. It just adds some fun to life. You will meet so many new people with similar interests and it is just a fun way to keep in touch with hobbies and gain leadership skills.Â
 Now, I’m not saying you need to join ten clubs, go to the gym every day, and spend every waking hour being productive. That’s a very quick way to get burnt out. Believe me, I would know. The whole point is to find what works for you and make time for the things that make you happy.
 Aside from everything on campus, some of us are only living in Miami for 4 years. We have to make the most of it and explore the beautiful city. One of my favorite places to go is Coconut Grove. Everyone loves “Thirsty Thursday”, but it’s beautiful during the day too! It is such a cool neighborhood to explore, with so many cool restaurants, stores, and places to explore.
 Another thing I definitely recommend is taking advantage of the Metrorail. You can head south to Dadeland Mall or go north to Brickell for the afternoon. You don’t always need to have a whole plan to have a good time. It is literally $2.50 each way, so grab a friend, pick a stop (make sure it is safe) and go explore.Â
 It is really difficult to handle FOMO here. I have spent so much money on events just because I didn’t want to miss out, but having fun here doesn’t always have to cost a ton of money. An extravagant night here and there is okay, but every weekend is wild and you definitely don’t have to do that to fit in. College is all about exploring and finding what YOU like.Â
 Some of my favorite memories aren’t even from big nights out or expensive plans. They’re from the random days when someone suggests getting food after class, going for a drive, or doing something completely unplanned. These little adventures make the best memories.Â
 Obviously, don’t ignore your responsibilities and spend every day exploring Miami. Canvas will still be waiting for you when you get home. But I do think it’s important to remember that college is about so much more than just getting your degree. It’s about meeting new people, trying new things, becoming more independent, and making memories that you’ll look back on years from now. This is the time of your life when you truly learn who you are and are free from the BIG responsibilities in the real world. Make the most of it.Â
 There will never really be a perfect time to do everything you want to do. There’s always going to be another exam to study for, another assignment to finish, or something else on your to-do list. There are times when you need to stay home, lock in, and prioritize your academics. But there are also times when you should let yourself take a break without feeling guilty about it.
 At the end of the day, making the most of your Miami day isn’t about having the most exciting plans, being involved in everything, or spending every second doing something productive. It’s about learning how to balance your responsibilities with the things that make you happy. While getting our education is the reason we’re here, I think we owe it to ourselves to enjoy the experience along the way, especially because we are so fortunate to live in this amazing city.Â