Coping with College

  1. **Exam schedule**: Make sure you know the dates, times, and locations of all your final exams. 2. **Study plan**: Create a study schedule that allocates enough time for reviewing each subject. Prioritize studying for exams based on their timing and difficulty. 3. **Take care of yourself**: Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthily, and exercise regularly during finals week. Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial for optimal performance. 4. **Stay focused**: Minimize distractions during study sessions by finding a quiet and comfortable place to work. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and productive. 5. **Review past exams**: If your professors provide past exams or practice questions, review them to get an idea of the format and types of questions you might encounter. 6. **Stay positive**: Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your ability to succeed. Visualize yourself doing well on your exams and focus on your strengths. 7. ...

​​Prioritize sleep; aim for 7-9 hours each night to enhance concentration, mood, and overall well-being. Nourish your body with balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel your brain and body.  Stay active; incorporate exercise into your routine, whether it is going to the gym, joining intramural sports, or simply taking brisk walks between classes.  Manage stress effectively through relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.  Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.  Prioritize mental health; seek support from campus counseling services or student organizations, and do not hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling.

  Paper Mate Flair Felt Pens - I use these to color code my notes and keep my calendar organized. They do not bleed onto other things, and they are very smooth to write with! Clear Sticky Notes - These are a must-have for books! I like to trace diagrams or pictures and stick them to my pages of notes. You can highlight and write on the sticky note instead of directly in the book, but you can hardly tell the difference!  Wireless Mouse - I love using my wireless mouse when I know I am going to be working on my laptop for a while. It is much more comfortable for me to use a wireless mouse than the built-in pad. Tip: If you have a Mac, you will need to buy a USB to a C-charger adapter if you are using a traditional wireless mouse.

Setting Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments or activities that drain your energy or overwhelm you. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial for preserving your mental and emotional well-being. Seeking Support: Building a support network can provide emotional validation, guidance, and encouragement during challenging times. Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing difficulties. Mindful Technology Use: Set boundaries around technology use to prevent burnout and promote mental well-being. Limit screen time, especially before bedtime, and engage in offline activities that nourish your mind and body. Engaging in a Hobby: Make time for an activity that you enjoy, whether it is reading, painting, gardening, or playing music. Engaging in hobbies can provide relaxation, creativity, and a sense of fulfillment.

  Set small goals. There is nothing worse than feeling overwhelmed, so take it easy on yourself and set goals you know that you can meet.  Take a break. Taking 10-15 minute study breaks are great, but they do not work after a while. Take the day off and do something you have been wanting to do. You will be much more productive when you come back to your work.  Make a schedule. Be sure to eat a healthy diet, keep a good sleep schedule, and exercise frequently. Add something special to your days to prevent burnout.  Think about your end goal. It’s tough now, but picture where you will be after the semester is over! You will be one step closer to your degree!

  Questions to ask yourself when deciding on the best answer on a test...  Which one of these answers would provide my patient with an immediate fix? Some answer choices may seem correct or adequate, but think about their short-term and long-term effects.  What would happen if I waited to do this for my patient? For example, you can probably wait to give a bath or do oral hygiene care, but patient harm could be done if a medication is not given right away.  Am I following the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation)? Remember, many things can fall under each of these categories. For example, a patient in hypovolemic shock will need IV fluids. IV fluids are a part of circulation!