I’m only a freshman and I’ve already heard of the Blacksburg Virginia winter horror stories. Blacksburg is a small mountain town, so I’m expecting a decent amount of winter weather action. However, this semester should also be fun and a time when school seems to get serious. From self-care to events you can enjoy, here is a guide to surviving the second semester of college.
- Get Outside
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I know that, especially during the winter, getting outside can be a bit of a stretch, but it is so important for our mental health. Staying cooped up inside can make many people feel worse. I encourage you to embrace the winter weather and get bundled up for a winter walk. Enjoy this time now because soon it will be so hot you’ll be dying for the AC that most of our dorms do not have.
- Plan Ahead
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One of my biggest mistakes in the first semester was failing to plan. If you don’t plan ahead, then you plan to fail. I suggest getting a head start on assignments while you have the free time because soon it will be gone. My favorite part of the new year is getting a new planner to organize my entire life with. Invest in a planner that will make your life easier and ease your stress. Having organization is key.
- Say yes but also say no
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This is something I think I will forever struggle with. Saying yes to life looks fun and easy, but if you protect your peace, the same way that I do, it can be a struggle. Taking the right opportunities is important, but protecting your time and mental health is more important. The moral of the story is to find what works best for you. That could be hanging out a few times a week and saving the rest of the week for yourself. This will look different for everyone.
- Go to the games
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Football in the Fall can be an absolute blast, but spring sports have a lot to offer as well. Basketball runs through March and into April and is my favorite. The games are very high energy and the stadium makes you feel involved. Baseball is also coming up in the Spring and the baseball environment is classic. I have yet to go to a Virginia Tech baseball game, but I am so excited.
- Remember to have fun
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We put a lot of pressure on ourselves and sometimes forget to enjoy the moment. Before you know it, the second semester will be over and we’ll all be on our way home for the summer. I love my hometown, but I know my roommates and I will all suffer separation anxiety when the time comes. Remember to enjoy yourself once in a while and not to take things so seriously. This is college, after all, and it’s supposed to be some of the best years of our lives.