Many graduates say their college experience was among the best times of their lives. There’s so much to learn, many people to meet, and unique experiences you won’t get anywhere else. However, college can also be challenging, especially during your first year. It can be jarring to be dropped off by Mom and Dad and not know what to do with your newfound freedom. Here are some key skills to pick up early so you not only survive but thrive at college and make the most out of the experience.
Budget your money from day one
Learning how to create a budget is an essential life skill and one of the first things any college student should do. Saving cash where you can means you’ll be able to afford food, books, and fun activities for a successful college career. The basics of a budget are very simple. Look at your income and compare it against your recurring monthly expenses. If you’re not making enough to cover your spending, you need to make adjustments. That may mean cutting out unnecessary costs, like streaming services or other subscriptions. You may also have to consider getting a part-time job.
If you’re still having issues managing your money, try other tactics like automating your monthly bills, so you automatically know those funds are unavailable. Another way to keep on top of things is using a budgeting app. Some apps will connect to your bank account so you can compare what you have to what you’re spending and track where you’re spending a lot in certain categories. Research your options to find which one is best for you. Many budgeting apps are free, so you won’t have an additional expense.
Related: The Best Budget Templates for Students to Master Money Management
Create a balanced school-life schedule
In addition to budgeting your money, you should also learn how to budget your time. College means more homework, projects, and social interactions with your peers. It can all become overwhelming, but creating a solid schedule will help alleviate much of the stress and anxiety that can creep up in college. When you know what you need to do each day and what lies ahead in the weeks to come, you can prepare accordingly and leave behind the unpredictability throughout your college career.
Planning a schedule shouldn’t only include your studies; you should also make time for proper self-care. A good exercise routine will keep you physically healthy and mentally sound. You’ll be amazed at what an early morning run or weight-lifting session can do for your stress and clearing your mind before a busy school day. Your routine should also include getting enough sleep. There’s a lot of excitement in college, but if you go out partying or pulling all-nighters all the time, you’ll only be hurting yourself. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. The best way to ensure good sleep is to go to bed at the same time every night—even on weekends. Sleep even affects your skin health and appearance. When your body is stressed, it releases the hormone cortisol. Over time, the constant release of cortisol can lead to increased oil production, which can result in acne and inflammation.
Related: How to Make Time for Yourself and Your Hobbies With a Busy School Schedule
Eat right and hydrate
Another key skill to develop in college is a proper diet. It’s easy to think you're too busy for a solid meal and instead rely on fast food and snacks, but there are extensive studies on the effects of food and drink on mental and physical health. For instance, there’s a link between eating processed meats and an increase in feelings of depression, while gluten can cause some people to experience mood disorders. On the other hand, many foods can fight the feelings of stress. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, a natural stress reducer. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, like avocados, have been found to improve heart health and your mood. Many other foods also power your body and brain for success during long days in class. Protein helps your body build new cells to keep you energized and awake. And fiber keeps you full for longer so you can focus on your studies and not your next meal.
You must also pay attention to what you drink. Whenever you go to class, bring a water bottle with you to stay hydrated throughout the day. You'll be more energized, feel better, and keep your mind sharp. In fact, sometimes when you think you're hungry, you're just a little dehydrated, so swap a snack for some water to get you by until lunch. As a final note, the allure of drinking alcohol during college can be strong, but try to avoid it whenever possible, especially if you’re under 21. The desire to party and stay up late can hamper your ability to function properly in class the next day.
Build strong relationships with your peers
To have a successful college career, you need to form positive relationships and create a supportive community. The people you keep around you should have your best interests at heart and want to see you succeed as well. Talk to students in your classes who seem to be going in the right direction and try to forge new friendships. If your personal struggles are getting in the way of making friends, there may be mental health peer support programs you can take advantage of on campus. Joining a group like this will allow you to connect with students who may also be struggling with anxiety and try to find solutions together. After you’ve been in college for a while, you may even consider taking on a leadership role in a group; your efforts could make a big impact on others. Remember: There is always someone to talk to when you need help in college, and just one guiding hand could make all the difference.
Related: 7 Tips to Help You Find Great Friends in College
These essential skills can help you survive and thrive during your college career and later in life. Combine solid study habits with self-care and smart planning, and you can get the most out of this amazing chapter in your life.
Looking for even more tips and tricks for living your best life in high school or college? Check out all Our Best Advice on Building Important Skills as a Student.
