ROUTINE - Develop a routine. I went through a period where I didn’t have any form of routine. I would go to bed when I wanted, I would wake up when I wanted, and I would just do things almost randomly. It is essential that you have some sort of routine to which you will study, go be active, rest, and eat! A routine will provide a set time in which you have allotted to do these things. Once I developed a routine, I became happier overall. I no longer felt as lost or draggy through the day. I could accomplish more. There is plenty of research available to you on how a routine can be beneficial. Take it from me though that a routine can change your whole experience and make you more productive.
INVOLVEMENT - College life is about new experiences! Go out to the activities that the school puts on, go join a club, or just go do something outside of your room. Be involved with the school and the people you surround yourself with. For the longest time I felt trapped within my dorm room until I began going out and finding activities I am interested in. Meeting people can be as easy or as hard as you make it to be. There is something for everyone and you will find people with common interests.
APPEARANCE - Just show up. Out late last night? Show up to class. Drag yourself out of your room and into that desk. Once I began showing up to class my grades astronomically improved. Crazy concept, right? Show up to classes and you’ll start to do better. Becoming present is a whole other level. There is a huge difference from just being in class and being present in class. Work on being present while you’re there. Sit in front and ask questions. It will be so much better in the long run.
Once I began to understand these three concepts my whole situation began to turn around. I became such a happier person and a better student. I would have saved so much struggling if I knew these things, and that is why I think it is important to pass it on.
Written By: Tanor Loosle - Sophomore at Northern Arizona University