Things Busy College Students Need to Put on Their To-Do Lists
As the end of the semester quickly approaches, the stress builds. Our to-do lists probably include exams, projects, presentations, and homework assignments. We all know that pain is temporary and GPA is forever, so we easily fall into the pattern of putting schoolwork above all else. Obviously schoolwork is important, but we have to remember to take care of ourselves so we can get that awesome forever GPA. So, here’s a list of things a busy college student’s to-do should definitely include.
1. Eat
Text from Mom: Hey, hun have you eaten today?
College student: Well I had a couple chips and a cheese stick. But, I finished three essays and two presentations that are due tomorrow.
When you’re busy, it’s easy to forget to eat. You barely have enough time to get up and use the bathroom, let alone walk to the Commons or Husky for a proper meal. But it’s actually important to eat three meals a day to ensure proper nutrition. Plus, you’ll have more energy and be able to get your work done much more So, even when you are crunched for time, find a few minutes to at least heat something in the microwave or pick up something from Monty’s or the Husky.
2. Sleep
Busy college students are no strangers to all-nighters. In actuality, sleep is really important. According to Stanford University, college students should be getting about eight hours of sleep. As a busy college student myself, I know pretty much none of us are getting that eight hours, or even near it. As finals are approaching and the end of the semester hurdles a ton of work our way, we need sleep more than ever. So, try to utilize breaks during the day and weekends as much as possible. Get a start on studying for finals and last minute projects as soon as possible to ensure all-nighters are not needed and get that full night of sleep you deserve.
3. Exercise
I know it’s hard to find time to do anything when the end of the semester is so near, but try to get some time in at the Rec Center. I don’t mean we all need to run until our legs are sore or lift weights until our arms feel like they’re going to fall off. It is said that a little cardio and toning is good for us. It gives us energy, keeps us healthy, and can be a great stress reliever. So, find some moments a couple times a week to get in your favorite type of workout. Your stress levels will lower and your body will thank you.
4. Socialize
We’re all in college to better our education, build resumes, and create a better future for ourselves, but college is also supposed to be a fun time in our lives when we make lifelong friends and really find ourselves. Hanging out with friends and enjoying each other’s company is a fun way to unwind. We all need to be dedicated to our studies, but we shouldn’t compromise our social lives for them. If you and your friends are especially overworked, but haven’t had time to hangout recently, meet up for a quick lunch, or even join forces and do schoolwork together. College is supposed to be the best four (or five, depending) years of our lives, and we should be able to balance school and socializing to make sure that’s true.
5. Make Time for Yourself
The end of the semester is an especially stressful time with finals being so close, and the stress just builds. It is important to make time for yourself and do things that make you happy, less stressed, and feeling more confident. Take study breaks to treat yourself to your favorite snack or Starbucks drink. Find some free time at night to watch your favorite show or play a new game on your phone. Just find time to do something that lets you unwind. Yes, we need to stay focused and get good grades, but that’s not possible if we don’t take care of ourselves.
As the spring semester comes to a close, the weather gets nicer, summer is near, and stress gets higher, but be sure to implement these five things to your busy college student to-do list. Yes, GPA is forever, but our health and mental stability is equally as important. If your physical and mental health starts to fail, your GPA is most likely going to suffer too. So, make the time to eat, sleep, exercise, socialize, and take care of yourself. Your body, mind, and grades will thank you.
