Posted by reritenour | Posted in Blog | Posted on 01-03-2010
For many first year students, going off to college can seem like a fun and exciting adventure into the rest of your life. For others, it may be one of the single most terrifying endeavors you've ever faced. Weather the idea of college may appear frightening or fun, there are a few things every student should keep in mind while transitioning into a new phase of life and coming into their own as a college student.
First, it is always a smart thing to take care of your health anytime of the year. Eating a well balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting an appropriate amount of sleep keeps the mind focused and the body strong. It may sound cliché, but eating a healthy breakfast is essential, because not only does it induce your energy but it kick starts your metabolism, and believe it or not, it can also help fight the notorious Freshmen 15(lbs). Also, make an appoint to eat healthy fruits and vegetables at least twice a day. I know steamed carrots may not sound as appealing as 3 meat pizza, but it is, with no doubt, far healthier. Drinking as much water as you can (8 cups recommended) and taking vitamins are also good.
Now, I know as a college student myself, it can be difficult finding time to do much of anything, but if at all possible, try enrolling into a work out class. If you can not enroll, do some in home exercises, there are plenty of DVD's, books and even early morning tv shows that can help you find the exercises that are perfect for you. Staying active and fit is not only an excellent way to relieve stress and clear the mind, but it keeps you energetic and in good shape.
At least two weeks before heading off to school, you should begin implementing a sleep pattern that you can take with you. Going to bed at a certain time every night and waking up on schedule, will help program your body to getting up for some of those early classes and keep you rejuvenated through out the day. If you are one of those people like me, that just have to nap, set a specific time to do so and stick to it. To avoid throwing off your regularly scheduled bedtime, it is best to never sleep past 3pm. Remember, health is vital to success, if you feel good on the inside, you'll do go on the outside!
On that first day of school, always remember that everyone has a few butterflies when going into something new. However, don't let exaggerated doubts and unjust insecurities get to you. Wake up at a decent time and put yourself together, building your confidence and appearance before you head out that door into the scholastic world. Be as prepared as you possibly can for class and be sure not to be late. When you get to class say “Hi,” and show your friendliness as best you can. Ask questions, get to know your peers, (you'll be surprised how much you might have in common) Get to know your teachers and your school staff, remember they are here to help you. A few weeks from now you'll look back and think “Gee, now what was I so afraid of?”
Another vital key to college life is retaining the ability to balance out your social life with your scholastic one. It is important that as a college student you recognize the importance of study, perseverance, discipline and hard work. This is not to say that hanging out with friends and having a good time isn't permissible, in fact, I do believe it is an immense part of the college experience. However, the trick is being able to juggle the act of both. The only way to do that is by prioritizing and organizing your time. Set aside a specific schedule for the important things such as studying for a quiz or writing a research paper. Instituting study groups can be a great way of feeding the social bug and learning at the same time. In all, just be sure to set aside your fun time when all the hard work is finished. Yea, sometimes its tempting to procrastinate and put off tasks to hang out with friends, but when you receive that A instead of a C, its very well worth it
Personal organization is a must too. A clutterd work space only produces a clutterd mind. That is why It's important to have a neat working enviornment and some type of record keeping method such as a calendar or date book. that way you can always stay ahead and on time with assignments and dates of importance. Like the saying goes, “If you're early you're on time, if you're on time your late, if you're late, it's unacceptable!”
Lastly, always remember to have fun and enjoy education. There's nothing like going to a job you hate and there's nothing like going to a class you loath! College is a stepping stone to the rest of your life, and the foundation for your future. It is a time to come into your own and embrace who you are, while developing into the person you wish to become. So make learning fun while keeping a firm focus, and you'll be surprised how the expecollege will turn out to be more then just an experience to love but one to treasure as well.

