Starting college is a big step, especially if you are the first in your family to go to college. As someone who is a first-generation college student, I can admit I was excited but anxious at the same time. Once you graduate high school, you start having a big responsibility for yourself and how you manage things.

One thing I would have liked to have known before starting college is the importance of time management. In high school, this was something I did not struggle with, due to my only responsibility was completing my homework. In college, you must balance studying, doing homework, working, and having time for yourself, which can be difficult. Learning to keep track of what is happening throughout your week is helpful to not do things at the last minute and to schedule things accordingly.

If possible, I would say meeting with your scholar advisor before starting your college courses or a few weeks into school will be a great benefit to know how to plan your schedule. Personally, I wish I could have spoken with my advisor beforehand to get some help scheduling my courses.

Having time for yourself can be hard to do because sometimes you may have too much homework or need to study for a big exam or are too tired and just need sleep and end up not getting to watch your favorite tv show or go hang out with your friends. Believe it or not, taking breaks from school helps refresh your mind and helps your mental health from feeling overwhelmed. Some things I have found useful to do are:

1. Eating your favorite food or snack and watch a movie or tv show.
2. Spending time outside.
3. Spending time working on your favorite hobby.
4. Spending time with your friends or family.

Taking care of your physical health is also particularly important. Not eating healthily or being aware of your health can affect your daily life. Being prepared during flu season is most important since this can keep you from attending classes or going to work. I always find it helpful to keep items such as tissues, hand sanitizer, Tylenol, and a mask in my school bag just in case I may need it most of all when commuting to campus. Staying hydrated of course is especially important especially when you have a long day.

There is nothing wrong with asking for help, everyone needs it. As someone who is an introvert, learning to reach out for help or simply speaking up was my biggest challenge to overcome. College is not easy at all so if you are falling behind in a course or have questions about your progress, do not be afraid to ask your college advisors or your professors. As time goes by you will realize, yes college is hard but with your hard work and effort it will be worth it in the end, and you will then be able to help new college students after you.

This blog was written for Healthy Young Nevada by Brigitte, an Intern at Immunize Nevada.