The pressure to socialize and get involved on campus is REAL. Words cannot describe the hardship of managing classes, homework, routine, clubs, sports, and on top of that, social life. Although it’s the first month, everything does feel like it is crushing down on everyone. Especially since the first exams have been taking place over the last two weeks. Have no fear, you are not alone. And don’t worry, just take it one step at a time — or at least try to.
With schoolwork, I tend to break it up within the week and focus on assignments due the next day. It is now routine to keep up with work. However, I do not let that encourage me to do the same thing every day. One day I will go out for breakfast with friends, or I will chill in my dorm until my next class starts. Keep the work constant, but be spontaneous in every other aspect of your day. It keeps each day exciting, new, and different. One thing I don’t like messing around with is my sleep schedule. That is the most crucial thing to surviving the next day, and most people don’t even realize how important it is to get rest. Even if it means taking a nap in between classes, rest should always be prioritized because it clears the mind and resets the body from all stress. So please, sleep!! Take time for yourself to relax, meditate, or simply do something you enjoy.
Along with academics, it is challenging to keep up with club meetings and other events around campus. Despite how tiring and intimidating these meetings can get, I encourage everyone to attend and put themselves out there. I can guarantee that you are not alone in these events, and at least a few people feel the same way — whatever class level they are in. You also never know what kind of opportunities you might find once you put yourself out there. Plus, clubs and extracurriculars are meant to bring connections and community together, so take advantage of this and set some goals. For example, in a club meeting, I like to set one goal or accomplishment I have to complete at the end of the event. Whether it be meeting someone new, learning something new, or having fun, it helps me feel grounded to every activity I partake in. A good reminder is not to force yourself or treat it as an obligation — participate in what you feel connected to and comfortable with doing.
A month of classes has passed, so congratulate yourself on small milestones you accomplished during this month! Don’t be hard on yourself, and give credit where credit is due. Take time to treat yourself with food or buy an item you have wanted for so long. Whichever way you approach college life is ultimately up to you, so enjoy it as much as you can!
