Everyone is always told to get eight hours of sleep, but as teenagers, and especially college students, we have always shrugged off this simple advice. This semester, I have found myself in bed and asleep by 10pm I know most students see 10pm as homework time or time to meet up with friends to go out. I know all the parties start at 10pm and that college is supposed to be the time of your life, but waking up with energy and getting everything accomplished is honestly more incredible than any party could ever be.
Going to sleep early has eliminated so much stress from school in so many ways. I am so much more alert in class. I can power through an hour long lecture with a fast-talking professor and follow along with ease. Even if the topic might not be my first choice in what I want to learn, I am still going to be tested over that information so I might as well get it over with, right? I can also thank my class schedule. Fortunately, this semester I only have one late lab class and the rest of my afternoons are pretty open. This schedule has really allowed me to get my work and studying done before dinner time. Securing a schedule and sticking to it has helped me maintain a night time routine that ensures that once I’m in bed, I will fall asleep and sleep well. I know that not every semester’s schedule can be the same, but I hope to be able to keep it as close as possible.
I know that the majority of students still have to work, and I am included in that category as well. Recently, I was fortunate enough to get hired on to the grounds crew on campus. The benefits of working on campus are tremendous. They respect each student and their class schedule, and allow hours to do homework and study. I really recommend applying to on campus jobs to eliminate the hassle of getting called into fast-food or retail work and conflicts with scheduling. I can’t say that I ever pictured myself working for the grounds crew, but it’s been fun. I like that I can go into work at 7am and work a few hours before my classes which helps to jump start my day. Who wouldn’t like to make some money before class even starts?
The little pieces of advice that we have ignored since middle school, such as eat breakfast and get enough sleep, is really taken for granted. I believe it’s simply one of the best things that you can do for yourself. It might take a little effort to establish a routine and to give up things that consume so much time, but the benefits are astounding in regards to your grades and productivity.