Hang in there, friends! I know I am starting to feel stress creep up on me after being in class for so long, and I am sure you are too. I just have a few quick tips that I use to help get through this crazy time. 

First of all: SLEEP. It seems silly to say, but sometimes sleep is one of the main things that get pushed by a student who is focusing on the many aspects of college life. It is not only important to get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep, but also to try to stay on a similar sleep schedule. Going to bed and getting up at the same time will make it easier and less stressful to rise and truly shine.

Secondly: EAT. I’m sure we have all had those days where you have to run from one obligation to another and next thing you know its 3:00 and all you had all day was a banana. It is so important to eat regularly throughout the day and even better if it can be with healthy and nutritious foods. Unfortunately those snack foods and energy drinks we use for a “boost” is only a short-term solution to the long-term obligations of college.

Thirdly: EXERCISE. This does not mean to plan out 2 hours every day to hit the gym with an intense workout. That would take away more time that you probably don’t have. Instead try to go on a jog or short walk at a break in the day. You could also decide to leave a few minutes early to walk to class instead of taking the Bearline. Personally, I go on a run most every evening after all my daily duties are finished with. For me, this is a way to let all the stress of the day slip away. Getting in as little as 20 min of exercise a day can have a huge positive impact on your stress levels.

Lastly: PURSUE ENJOYMENT. No matter how busy your days get, make it a priority to do something that you are passionate about. This could be drawing for fun, listening to music, kicking around a soccer ball, playing with Photoshop, absolutely anything that makes you happy and you enjoy. Having something like this in your day will keep you motivated and more energetic for your other responsibilities.

I think all these tips are very helpful in battling the daily stress and hope they can be helpful to other students. It is important to know that there are many people available to students if the stress starts to get overwhelming. There are Resident Assistants, instructors, professors, friends, counselors and advisors who are more than willing to lend a supportive hand. I also encourage students to share with their families all they have going on for a reminder of the support coming from home.

~Zoe

Zoe Pixler, a sophomore majoring in Photography and Art Education, is a Family Orientation Coordinator, helping with special projects and family orienation.  She is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma where she is the Goals and Resource Coordinator.