This semester, I had the unfortunate pleasure of taking 19 credit hours. While I’ve managed to get through these past few months without too many breakdowns, I’ve learned a lot of important lessons along the way (including that I can’t handle 19 credit hours).
1. Plan EVERYTHING.
I don’t think there was a single day where I didn’t use my planner or have a to-do list on my laptop. It made keeping track of what needs to get done so much easier, and it made sure I didn’t forget anything important!
2. Plenty of sleep is key.
I’ve definitely had my share of late nights and all-nighters, but I’ve realized the hard way that it really sucks. I’m tired the next day, I’ve probably forgotten most of the information anyways, and I don’t get anything done afterwards. Grades are important, but so is sleep! Make sure you get at least 6-8 hours so you can function properly.
3. “Me time” is so underrated.
Even if it’s just a 15 minute break, take some time for yourself! Work out, get a snack, call your mom, whatever you need. I’ve started doing face masks and Netflix breaks. Not only does my skin look great, but I feel recharged and ready to go!
4. Saying “yes” is so overrated.
I’ve realized that I can’t say yes to everything when I already have too much on my plate. It’s okay to say no to your friends when they want to hang out or spend precious hours talking! If they’re really your friends, they’ll understand; as cliché as it may sound, it’s 100% true.
5. Don’t forget to eat!
Skipping meals is just a bad idea all around. It’s unhealthy. You’re not as energized. And your brain doesn’t think as clearly without those nutrients. I’m not saying cook a gourmet meal three times a day, but make sure there’s something in your stomach to keep you going (just coffee doesn’t count).
6. And drink plenty of water.
It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re in the zone, typing up that last lab report or finishing those few problems. But make it a point to keep a water bottle with you, especially if you’re walking across Clemson’s campus all day in the heat! I usually try to take a few sips when I get to a building, when I leave, and when I finish an assignment or start a new one.
7. Don’t overload on coffee and energy drinks.
It’s tempting, but it’s not good for your heart or liver in the long run. One or two won’t hurt, but definitely don’t chug them! Instead, use energy from food and drinking cold water to keep you up. And listen to your body when it tells you that it’s time for bed.
8. Take breaks when you need them.
That isn’t to say do an hour of work and take a three hour break. But if the words on the screen are blurring together, it might be time to walk away for a little bit. It can be simple, like getting a snack or taking a short nap; or you can go spend an hour with a friend. It’s important to let the brain recharge so you can focus!
9. Do the best you can.
At the end of the day, grades are just grades. Yes, they’re important and necessary to get wherever you want to go in life, but they are not more important than your health. And if you know that you’ve done the best you can, you’ll feel better about your work, even if the grade isn’t exactly what you wanted.