Hi Eli,
I'm sorry you had to miss the seminar. College can be a very busy and stressful time, and it can be hard to do everything you want to do. Here are some tips that can help with managing all your time, activities and responsibilities.
1. If you don't already have one, get a calendar/day planner. Whether it's the pen and paper variety, electronic PDA, or a calendar on your computer (iCal, Outlook), this will definitely help keep you organized. Write down class times, meetings, your work schedule, assignments due, and other important events. Always knowing what is ahead keeps your stress down and helps you stay organized.
2. Concentrate on one or two extracurricular activities only. Spreading yourself too thin leads to stress and does not allow you to devote as much time or effort to these clubs as you could. Find one (or maybe two clubs) you really enjoy, are passionate about, and/or will help you after you graduate and focus on those. Also, by focusing on one or two activities only, you will have more time for yourself and/or other spur of the moment activities that may pop up.
3. Eat and sleep well. You will perform better when you eat regularly and choose healthier foods. I know this can be hard in college, so keep a stash of healthy snacks like nuts, whole grain crackers, and fiber-rich granola bars. This will help you stay alert. Getting on a regular sleep schedule will help with stress and focus as well. It sounds simple, but it will really help!
4. Remember that academics come first! You are in college to get an education and that is your number one priority. Once you get used to college life, you can add more extracurricular activities, nights out with friends, or more hours at your part-time job. A little investment now will pay off big time!
5. If you need some extra help with classes or studying, get a tutor. Schools usually offer tutors to students for free or very low cost. When you're crunched for time or having difficulty in a certain subject, a tutor is a great resource. They can help you maximize your study time and give you tips for studying/learning. You can also go to your professors and ask for help from them. Don't be shy! :)
6. If you are still crunched for time, try to combine studies and social activities from time to time. When I was in college, my friends and I would get together for dinner and study time. We would make dinner together or order in and then study together, quiz each other, use flashcards, do group projects, etc. It was still studying and hard work, but it was nice to study with friends and help each other.
7. It is also important that you make time for yourself -- relaxing, recuperating, resting so you have the energy necessary for everything else. I would go back to your schedule and see if there is a way for you to arrange activities so that you are able to make time for yourself or spending time with your friends/family. Try to keep at least one afternoon or night free so that you can relax or hang out with your friends/family. If this is impossible, you may want to ask yourself if you are taking on too much. You may be overwhelming yourself with too many activities. While there can be a lot of pressure, it is important to keep a balance. I would make a list of all the activities you are part of. Reflect on them and think about whether you are taking on too many activities. If your list is too long, you may want to consider shortening it so that you can have a few hours out of the week for you.
Best,
Amber George
LIC Advisor
