Whether you’re attending college for the first time or taking the grand second time around tour as a mid-career adult, it’s easy to fall victim to the inherent stress that goes with sequential classes, intense lectures, quizzes, projects, homework, and exams. Most full-time students get the feeling that they’re facing a never-ending stream of demands and not enough time to get everything done. Add grade pressure to the mix, and college can be a major source of mental anguish for even the most durable personality types.
The good news is that there are all kinds of ways to fight the stress battle and win. The secret is to use lots of small techniques, each of which works to deflate the totality of academic pressure just a bit. Taken together, they can go a long way toward making your academic life a pleasant, productive, enjoyable one. Here are four ways to wage war on stressful coursework.
Stick to a Sensible Study Schedule
For those new to the post-high school routine, scheduling study sessions is probably a new concept. But, it’s absolutely essential for success and mental health when a diploma is at stake. Make a few attempts to write a weekly study schedule based on your classroom and non-classroom commitments. If the first one doesn’t work well, tinker with it until it does. Once you arrive at something you can live with, stick with it for at least one semester.
Learn to Relax
Make time to relax in whatever way works for you. If you live and attend school in New York, for example, you can apply for a medical marijuana (MMJ) card from the comfort of any internet connection. The application is simple to fill out and you pay nothing unless you’re approved. Stress can be a debilitating factor in anyone’s life, so do what you must to fight it. With New York state cannabis doctors, they can assess you online too, which means there’s no need to travel anywhere and wait in line to get your card.
Take Regular Days Off
Avoid falling into a common trap. Far too many university students study every day, with no break in the cycle. The seven-day week exists for a reason, so make sure to take at least one, preferably two, full days off every week. Of course, you’ll need to maintain a regular schedule to allow for full days off, but the effort is worth it. Those no-study days help your brain relax fully and your body get the long breaks it needs.
Limit Extracurricular Activities
It’s sensible to participate in a few extracurricular clubs, like band, league sports, and social groups. But, be careful not to overload yourself. Non-academic clubs can be a great way to meet people, stay in shape, or learn skills, but they have a way or eating away at your free time. Aim for balance by choosing just one or two extracurricular activities that interest you. Try to find one that’s mostly social and another that is sports or outdoor-related. Avoid signing up for clubs just so you can add them to your résumé.
