Four Crossed Logs: College survival guide

College is hard.

It’s harder for those who work and go to college, and even harder for those who are a parent and go to college. It’s harder still for those who don’t learn as efficiently as others, and especially difficult for those who don’t learn as efficiently as others, work and are parents.

Bottom line: It’s hard to be a college student.

Here are some helpful tips that I have learned and some that have been given to me that made life so much easier for me in college.

Learn how to manage a budget

Cut back on fast food purchases.
Only use your credit cards for emergency use.
Save. Save. Save.
Only buy the books and supplies you absolutely need.

Make use of your time wisely.

Take notes in class.
Ask questions, even if you have to stay after class to ask them.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep.
Give yourself some down time – don’t overwhelm yourself.

Maintain a healthy diet

Eat breakfast. Eat lunch. Eat dinner.
An excessive amount of fast food and junk food will not do you any favors.
Get some form of exercise.
Drink plenty of water.

Don’t freak out when it comes to presentation day

Practice what you’re going to say, especially in front of the mirror.
Get a friend to ask a question you already know the answer to – buy this friend a pizza afterward.
Don’t imagine everyone in their underwear!
Find a spot in the room, and stare at that spot while you’re giving your speech. Don’t just glare at the pretty girl in the front row.

Be sociable

You would be surprised the close friendships you can make in college.
It’s okay to be an introvert, but don’t run away from all social situations.
Join a club on campus.
Being friendly to someone just might be the thing he/she needs. You never know what they’re going through.

Trust in your professors

When your professors give you some serious life knowledge, listen.
Make it a habit to talk with your academic advisor at least once a semester.
Don’t be too confrontational. If there’s a pressing issue that’s out of your control, take it to the proper authorities.
Give them positive feedback/criticism on their semester evaluations. They will appreciate it.

Don’t get too stressed out

Treat yourself every once in while with a study break or a drive out of town.
Some stress is good, but don’t have a nervous breakdown in the middle of a test. Just relax. It’s not the end of the world.
Make your professor aware if you’re feeling overwhelmed. They could give you an extended deadline for a paper or study tips.
Don’t be the workhorse in group projects. If you’re feeling like no else is contributing, let the professor know the situation.

Be responsible

Stop letting your mom wash your clothes. You need to do that yourself.
Set an alarm. You really can’t afford to miss too many classes.
Eat something better than PBJ and Ramen noodles.
Clean up after yourself, and bathe regularly.

Don’t let others distract you

This is your life and your time to do something. Don’t get too preoccupied with romantic relationships. If it’s causing your grades to slip, then it’s time to move on.
Spend time with your friends, but don’t let them be an excuse to ditch writing a paper or to study for a test.
If your roommates are being too rowdy, then move your study session elsewhere.
It’s okay to tell that one annoying person in class who always has something to say to shut up. This class is for you too, not just them.

Don’t let other temptations mess up your life

Stay away from parties and alcohol as much as possible.
Don’t get too intimate with your boyfriend/girlfriend. Can you really handle a baby right now?
Stay away from social media as much as possible, and limit your time on Netflix.
If you’re on a sports team or in a school club, don’t let them consume your time. Your studies still come first.

Don’t feel obligated in picking a major right away

Not everyone knows what they want to do when they start college, and it’s okay.
Take a variety of classes to explore several different options.
It’s okay to change your major, but don’t make it a habit.
Finish with your general studies first, and then make a decision.

Stay in contact with your family

Make sure you call home and let your folks know you’re alright, especially if you live away from home.
If you still live at home, spend some time with your family while you can.
Come home on some weekends and holidays.
If you’re married, spend time with your spouse outside of the house. If you have kids, spoil them a little.

Get a job or an internship

It doesn’t hurt to work a few hours during the week to earn some extra cash.
Getting an internship is a great way to get your foot in the door for a future job.
Internships provide excellent experience and could even help persuade you in a career choice.
Campus internships and jobs are pretty ideal.

Have fun

College isn’t always about studying and making perfect test scores. Sometimes you need to just relax and enjoy yourself.
Be sociable, be friendly, be you. This is supposed to be the best years of your life.
Meet new people, make new friendships, fall in love and take a vacation.
Get the most out of your college experience.