College is the time where we create memories and experiences, but at the same time, we are learning how to manage lifestyle tasks. It’s common for students to face an obstacle sometime during their time in school and when we are caught in the mist of these situations; some of us are not aware of what to do.
Here are three common problems that you find in college and some solutions to consider:
Time Management
Problem: Most college students, at some point, find themselves in a time crunch. This can become a problem when taking more units than the average 12 to 15 credits a semester. While others cram up to 18 or 21 units, this can become too much, and assignments begin to pile up.
Solution:
Know your limits: Unless you know you can handle so many units, it’s best to consider taking 15 units a semester because you may become overwhelmed.
Create a calendar: This is one is a beneficial tool in college. Write down a time to do laundry, homework, study, call your parents and most importantly relax. According to Education Quest Foundation, taking time to rest and recharge is important not only for mental sanity but for your physical health.
Sleep: I suggest you make sure this gets done. From experience, it’s not fun staying up all night finishing 18 units worth of homework every other day, depending on your schedule. Even if it’s a nap some time throughout your day, it’ll help you recharge. According to Sleep-Science, a 20 to 30-minute nap boosts alertness and improves motor performance.
Debt
Problem: Students hit loan debts if they undergo peer pressure or binge shop for unnecessary things. Most of us have been there, where we want to be a part of the experience with our friends or buy things we can’t afford. The real reason students hit debt is from necessities that we must pay for while also paying tuition. There are bills, rent, hygiene products, transportation and groceries. According to Politico Magazine, student loan debt has doubled over the past seven years and is now close to $1.3 trillion.
Solution:
Plan: By creating a plan, it can help you avoid student debt. Create goals to pay due dates and set aside money for paying future school debts. If you need help getting started, there are programs on campus that can lead you in the right direction.
Set aside a budget: If you set a strict budget for yourself on a weekly basis, this can prevent you from spending so much money and prevent burdens such as food insecurities from happening. According to Student Debt Relief, saving your cash before and during college can help to repay those loans much more quickly once they become due.
Take on some responsibilities: What I mean by this, is taking the time to apply for ways to receive funds, such as scholarships. You should also consider taking on a job if you know you could use the extra cash. On a side note, also be aware of prioritizing such a task when juggling classes.
Health Problems
Problem: This can happen when stress occurs, as well as the lack of self-care, and in some cases blocking your emotions can lead to depression. This is common for students when being far from home and experiencing a new environment.
Solution:
Exercise: This doesn’t always involve the gym. What’s most important is making physical activity part of your lifestyle. You can get your cardio in by going for a stroll around the area for at least 30 minutes. Some exercises include brisk walking, swimming or other therapeutic activities, according to Mayo Clinic.
Socialize: I suggest staying away from your dorm room for a while and not study endlessly. You can do anything from attending the gym, grabbing some dinner or even join an organization on campus.
Use your services: There are people who can help. There is advising, counseling and tutors offered to you in the Student Services Center. If you ever feel the need to talk to someone or find yourself having a difficult time getting started on assignments, they are available to you.
Karen Limones can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @theorion_news.
