Hello Everyone,
Semester 2 of junior year means I am starting my 6th semester of college. Some days it doesn’t feel like it’s real. When you get as far into college as I have, it feels so good but also crazy. College is hard, that’s the truth, but it is so rewarding. Anyway, I wanted to give my best tips and tricks for college itself. I have talked about study tips before, but that’s not all that college is. It is so much more.
Mental Health: This is probably the most important, in my opinion. I know it sounds simple, but college is super draining (that is normal and ok). I work two jobs, have classes, and also have a social life. All those are important to me, BUT when I am so mentally unwell, I can’t focus. I believe you need to give your mind time to just shut off. Which means I don’t scroll on my phone, do homework, and I do something that’s not something to think hard about. I like to watch TV or read a book, which is not something for class. It definitely helps me, especially just to relax and not overthink. Also University of Iowa Student Health has a selection of resources for mental health, including therapists and group therapy.
Physical Health: College is a lot of repetition. Somedays you have 2 classes, others 4, and in that busy repetition, you forget to eat, workout and even stand up during your study time. You HAVE to take care of yourself. College brings a ton of new people together, which means when flu season comes around, you need to stay healthy. I find it super easy to get even a 30-minute walk in because of how easy it is to walk on campus, so if you’re not the biggest gym person, that’s ok. Iowa City is an amazing place to walk. Even in these cold January months, I love to walk around the ped-mall, going into shops.
Studying and Not Studying: College is full of studying, but you have to take a break. I have always said 45 on 15 off, and that’s great, but also don’t study every day of every week and weekend. That is not me saying to study. But take time to stop and do something fun. I love getting coffee at the library or one of Iowa City’s many coffee shops. I also believe in rewarding yourself. So if you spent all week studying for a midterm and took the test after that test, spend that day or night giving yourself something that makes you happy. Some things that I like to do are get my favorite takeout, go online shopping, and go to Target. If you don’t want to be out, spend the night writing in your journal, watching your favorite show, do an art project. Truly anything that makes you feel good.
Morning and Night Routine: I know every morning I spend getting my hair up, doing makeup, and skin care, I feel much more confident. Also, when I spend my night doing my skin care, showering, and putting my pjs on, I feel so ready and relaxed for bed. I truly believe everyone has to stick to a routine. College classes can be constantly throwing new things at you, and while that’s normal, having a routine helps you stay grounded.
Working: I have two jobs, and as a college student, I think it’s a great experience for college. I love my jobs and I get to take a little break from classes and focus on doing something that helps balance all the craziness and is something I enjoy. The university has a bunch of jobs it offers to students during the semesters, as well as some jobs that it offers over breaks.
Last. . . Social Life: Everyone needs connections and people to relax with. I love studying or going shopping with my friends. Having people to trust and talk about things that stress you out, or just to socialize. College will introduce you to new people from so many different places, and you will find people you have so much commen. I also recommend joining clubs and groups that you like. We have so many clubs, from Dance Marathon, CAB, Dance Club, and so much more. Be open to trying new things.
6 semesters in, and it amazes me how fast it has gone, but also how much I have learned. Iowa is home to so many during their 4 years of college, including me. Have a wonderful day and GO HAWKS.
Cheers,
Rose
