By: Bryanna Garnes

Going to college is a big deal. For many it can represent freedom, joy, or even fear. However, it is an overall amazing accomplishment. Since so many different types of people come together in one location it can be kind of overwhelming. Below is a list of tools and tips that helped me destress and make college less overwhelming.

Use external resources

Websites like ratemyprofessor.com help explain your professor’s teaching and grading styles and is a helpful tool to set yourself up properly. Even using TikTok and other social media platforms can help you get the vibes of the class you’re taking.

Find a balance; make a schedule EARLY

Personally, I love the Google calendar. All of my class times and locations are in my calendar to help me remember what I have to do each day. If I just had a long night and forget what I'm supposed to be doing one day, I turn to my calendar. Once you get your syllabus you're probably not going to look at it again so taking the time to write down all the dates of your exams, quizzes, and homework assignments will help you stay on top of work before the two day reminder that professors (occasionally) give.

Go to bed earlier - or at the time you say originally

Put that phone down. While the amount of sleep people need can vary from person to person — there are absolutely no benefits of doom scrolling your night away. Good sleep allows you to fully function throughout the day. To avoid going on my phone when I’m having trouble sleeping, I'll make tea and read a book in bed to calm my mind down. I’ve also counted sheep before… it actually worked! The point is, this is not high school, that first day is going to have you TIRED. Get good sleep and nourish yourself in order to stay properly fueled throughout the week.

Go out

Everyone is in the same boat as you — nervous/excited and wanting to meet new people. This is an exciting time so make the most of it. Learn different ways to have fun on campus that doesn't always have to be a frat party — even frat flicking gets boring after a while (no offense to the frat flickers). Take a long walk, Uber, or train to Center City and find spots to try or places that remind you of home. If you just want to party, then do it! Put on a fire outfit and have fun safely.

Do something by yourself - get a feel of things on your own

While it is nice to make friends, college is also about learning who you are. I love walking around because it helps me be calm and think about my feelings. Whether it’s riding a bike or going to the gym, try to pick up something that can help you understand who you are a little better. All of the activities are great for your mental health too.

Leave your door open

Especially the first week, people do this in order to know the individuals on their floor and who they’ll be surrounding themselves with for the next couple of months. It’s a great way to meet people other than your roommates and you never know who’ll be in some of your classes.

Try new things

Getting to know yourself a little bit better in a new environment is very important and one way to do it is through student clubs. Joining clubs is not only a great way to stay active and build your resume but it is also a wonderful way to look deeper into things that peak your interest. Sports, debate, and dance aren’t things that have to end once you get to college.

Build new habits

For some, college is harder than high school, but getting into better and healthier work habits can help lessen the change. Look for study spots and think of what areas you focus best in. As tempting as it may be, do NOT procrastinate. Set time aside to do it and get it done, especially if you like to go out. Setting goals and finding specific time to get an assignment done will help you stay on top of everything. Go to the Student Success Center if you feel like you’re struggling. You’re paying to attend, don’t be afraid to utilize your resources.

Trust your gut

Parties are fun but if you're tired and getting a bad feeling, take the time for yourself. Take a shower, eat your favorite dessert, and watch something that you enjoy. Yes, FOMO is real, but only if you let it be. Whatever people say you missed and was so awesome is bound to happen again. It’s okay if you miss something on purpose and you know that you would not have had a good time. It’s more than okay to take a party break.

Learn that it’s okay to not be okay.

Being away from what you’re used to or friends that you’ve made along the way can be tough but that is why it is so important to have a support system. Whether there is someone you talk to every day or just every week, having a support system helps make the transition smooth. It doesn't have to be a person either, just something that you know will help regulate your emotions and keep you steady.

While everyone’s experience will be different, these tips have allowed me to enjoy my time to the fullest. Remember to take the time you need to breathe, have fun, and do a little retail therapy. At the end of the day, your college experience is what you make of it!

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