Well Collegiettes, it’s that time of year again. Spring semester is upon us which means 1: It’s almost summer and 2: It’s time to get down to business and show our GPAs exactly who is the boss here. So, as our belated Christmas gift to you, we have compiled a list of things that help us get through the semester. Some help us take it one day at a time and others help us plan for the long run in the hopes that we will be able to hold onto our sanity for just a little bit longer than expected. Check out our tips to find ways to improve your already busy life and make it feel a little less, well, busy.
Jen Alvarenga always makes sure to make time for herself as well as ensuring that she is taking care of herself to the best of her ability. She does this by scheduling in some personal time to unwind and making sure to keep hydrated and fairly well rested among other things. Kayla McEwen is another one that encourages self care – with a lot of emphasis on sleep. Not only will you feel well rested, but you will also have a stronger immune system to help fight off the Behrend plague. If a solid night’s sleep isn’t something you can always work into your schedule, make sure to have a nap (or three) throughout the day. Naps are something that Alicia Matos swears by in order to keep going through the rough weeks of tests, work, and meetings. Once that rough week comes to an end, engage in relaxation nation. You guessed it: treat yourself to some well deserved pampering. Kassidy Michalski unwinds with cuticle care of a pedicure or by putting on a face mask.
If pampering is not your method of instant relaxation, try picking back up a hobby. Brittany Thomas encourages everyone to not give up on hobbies that they enjoy. An avid crafter herself, Brittany finds it especially helpful to take a break and do something you enjoy. “I make sure to craft something or start one at least once a week just to escape from the stress of college.”
Maybe self love and hobbies aren’t exactly up your alley. For Nicole Norfolk, Alyson Munson, and Alicia, they survive by clutching onto their planners for dear life. Alicia says, “I would not survive the semester without it! I write down everything so I don’t forget anything at all.” Another thing both Alicia and Nicole do is to keep their planners color coded which makes everything so much more easy to see.
Building off of planners is the ever so convenient list. Alex Sienerth says that lists are a life saver for her. “I make them for every area of my life. Whether it’s a grocery list, to do list, or homework list, they are the only thing that keeps me organized!” One way to really get ahead on your list making would be something that Abby Lawton does every week. At the start of every week Abby likes to sit down and make a list of what needs to be done as well as set a realistic time frame to have it done by. She says that it’s a great way to get your tasks done and gives a good visual on what all you have going on.
Sure, journals and planners are nice, but maybe they require too much planning or they’re simply not your style. Andrea Gaez enjoys bullet journaling as a way to get all of her thoughts on paper. Everything from assignments to goals are all right in plain sight which allows for a clearer mind that is ready to take on the day.
Don’t forget, it’s always nice to have something to look forward to. This is especially helpful for Sorya Nasir who comes all the way from California and is only able to see her family (including the cutest twin babies siblings you have ever seen) during long breaks. “Whether you’re looking forward to Christmas, going home, or even just going out on a Friday night, it makes everyday kind of exciting because you’re a day closer.” Another good way of going about this is to go somewhere new at least once a month. Andrea likes to do this by taking a road trip with some friends or even just going somewhere new outside of campus. The change in scenery helps to calm her mind and will make you feel great!
When it all boils down, the semester is stressful and it’s always helpful to have little tricks in your arsenal to help calm you down. Abby enjoys listening to music in order to calm her down when she is stressed, annoyed, angry, or all of the above saying, “I put on music and it makes me feel better.” While music is always a good go-to, Andrea finds comfort in meditation. She says that by meditating for 5-10 minutes a day every week, you will definitely see a change. Check out some YouTube videos for meditation exercises to help you wind down and clear your mind everyday. Another calming technique that Andrea likes to practice are simple deep breathing exercises. They don’t take as long as meditation does and they can be practiced anywhere – even class! “This technique changed my life last semester by calming me down and preventing a few panic attacks,” Andrea said.
Maybe mediation and deep breathing isn’t for you. Find an aroma that melts your stresses away. Marissa Knox finds lighting a lavender candle puts her at ease. She also believes the perfect concoction to a calming environment is candles and tea. Brew a nice hot cup of chamomile tea. Sip on that and feel the calming vibes of total tranquility. However, the girl that kept it the most real is definitely Annie Domaracki when she responded with a solid, “Drinking.” Whether your drink of choice is coffee, tea, or something a little stronger (provided that you’re legal) taking a long sip is a surefire way to calm down and get ready to tackle the next day. So, bottoms up, Collegiettes and good luck this semester! HCXO