Students blog

College is no doubt a stressful environment. You've got a new schedule, new friends, and overall, a new life to get adjusted to. It's natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure from all the changes. The familiar fear I felt in my first Kindergarten class matched the anxiety I felt in my first college class. However, by implementing some fresh and fun self-care tips and tricks, the stress melted off my shoulders like sweet, scented candle wax. Here are three methods anyone can use if they need to take a break from the stress and focus on realigning their energy.

The first method to relieve college stress is to plan out all your activities in a planner! Keeping assignments, tests, and projects organized within a handy-dandy notebook or even in digital form is a great way of keeping track of things to do. These objectives can easily pile up and become overwhelming and stress inducing if left unattended. By managing your workload properly, you can mitigate your college stress!

Another way to relieve college stress is to allocate time doing an activity you enjoy. This time can be spent playing your favorite sport, binging a great show, lifting weights, or even just chilling solo. Students spend a lot of time in the company of others, and maintaining the college level of socializing can be exhausting, so spending some time doing something you love will relieve the stress and refill the energy.

Finally, mediation and breathing exercise are a great way to calm your nerves after a stress inducing experience. You can light a candle or spray room mist, and just close your eyes. When your mind is racing with a million thoughts, just sitting down and focusing on your breath is one of the best ways to center yourself and relax.

In conclusion, college can take a toll on us students, so it’s up to us to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves. And that may look different for everyone! This transformative era of our lives comes with its ups and downs, but as students we must always remember to brace ourselves and enjoy the ride.

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Dear diary, let me tell you about my day. Let me have a space to be fully vulnerable. Let me chronicle who I am and how I change and grow.

Journaling is a valuable tool that I've graciously incorporated into my life. It gives you space to be yourself without judgment and to identify feelings. Journaling relieves stress, helps you notice patterns in your life, and can soothe intense emotions. I've also found encouragement in starting to journal.

When I go through life's moments of distress, it's always helped me to turn towards the paper. I don't think there's ever been a time when I didn't feel at least a little better after writing down everything that bothered or upset me. I eventually recognize the things in my life that cause constant stress and address the issue. When you write in your journal, you may notice patterns looking back at previous entries. It's a great way to hold accountability. Writing thoughts down on paper records things that persistently generate joy, or even, unwelcome ill feelings. If being around a person or place makes you feel negative consistently, you may realize that you may not want to be around such circumstances anymore. As you look back, you recognize things you like and dislike. It's an awareness that perhaps you may not have gained otherwise. Recognizing patterns can be a catalyst to redirect in ways that make you happier and healthier.

When you journal, you create a space only you have access to. Nobody can judge you. You can express whatever you need to freely. Having such a private space allows you to talk about anything you want! Journaling encourages vulnerability and enables you to address your thoughts and feelings without anxiety about what other people may think. You can be completely honest with yourself about any experience throughout your day. With a scribble, emotions no longer need to be held inside. They flow outward and become able to be felt. Journals are a place for you to be yourself without fear. The ability to be open soothes stress tremendously.

Starting to journal feels so time-consuming at first. For me, the key was to romanticize it. To make it something I look forward to doing every day. I got myself a leather journal that I love dearly. I also went to a local store and got a fountain pen that I would always want to use (fountain pens are a lot of fun). I wanted every part of the practice to be something that was calming to me. I recommend getting a notebook you like. Make it one that you look forward to using. Get a pen you enjoy with a color of ink you think looks pretty. Add parts of your personality to your practice.

In the end, journaling is all about you!

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Have you ever felt like you were drowning during midterms week because all your classes have an exam or a paper on the same day? Unfortunately, this seems to be a universal college experience, so let's tackle it together. In this hyper stressful week, there are a few essential things to keep in mind: focus, fuel, and sleep. Without these three things, tireless hours spent in the library won't get you very far. So, let's dive into the best way to approach this brutal week.

The first step is to sharpen your focus. This begins with making a plan for your week. Write out what all your assignments are and when they are due. This will allow you to show up to your study sessions prepared! The next crucial step is finding a place where you feel comfortable studying. This may be the library, a common lounge, a lecture hall, a study room, etc. For some people, a concentrated study spot is a quiet part of the library and for others it may be in a louder place with background noise. The key is to be comfortable enough to focus and not get distracted. For me, this involves powering off my phone completely and putting it away in my backpack. After about 45 minutes, I allow myself to take a break, check my phone, and reset before returning to my studies.

The next vital step in killing your midterms is to be properly fueled. I normally bring a snack with me when I go to study because when I get hungry, I get distracted. Though food is an important type of fuel, there are other important types of fuel such as exercise. I feel most prepared to study and concentrate on work after going for a run, a walk, or to the gym. Any type of exercise helps me clear my mind which is important for successful studying.

Finally, a productive day of studying doesn’t go far without sleep to allow the information to process in your brain. A proper amount of sleep will help you more than one more hour of studying. Getting a full night’s rest before an exam is often the key difference between an aced exam and silly mistakes made. In taking this approach, you’ll be sure to ace your midterms this year!

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College is a great way to continue your education, make new friends, and build relationships and connections that will last you a lifetime. It is truly a place filled with unlimited opportunities. With that being said, college can also be a very stressful place at times. Juggling all your classes and homework may leave you feeling like you're falling behind. And joining extracurriculars definitely enhances the college experience, but if you struggle with time management, you can quickly get overwhelmed with the amount of time and work required on top of your academic demands. Here are a few tips that helped me learn how to manage and ease the stress of college.

Stay Connected

One thing that has really helped me is staying connected with my campus. I came to college thinking that everybody just has it together. I never used to ask for help and just thought I could manage it all on my own. Although you may think that there are no helpful resources out there, a lot of colleges provide free tutoring for almost every subject. Before learning about the tutoring, I would often stress myself out thinking that I would never be able to get the help I needed and would have to figure it out all by myself. However, these tools and resources are free and accessible; all you need to do is ask!

Plot and Scheme

Another tip I have for time management is to start by planning out your days, writing down what you have to do and making a to-do list. If you just keep all of the tasks in your head without properly planning it, it will most likely lead to you forgetting about certain obligations such as not making enough time for homework or not making enough time for yourself. I would recommend starting by getting into the healthy habit of writing and visualizing what your priorities are for the day.

Prioritize Yourself

Last, but not least, you should always prioritize yourself and your well-being. Although college can be stressful, you should never overwork yourself. It’s good to be self-motivated and determined, but you should also give yourself the rest and breaks you need. You’ll be hurting yourself more if you don’t prioritize your mental health. Always take the time to breathe, meditate, clear your mind, or do something that helps you relieve your stress. It can be something as simple as drawing, going on a walk, or cooking! Personally, I found that coloring really helps me clear my mind. Overworking yourself can ultimately result in burning yourself out, which is exactly what you don’t want to do at the end of the day.

Success starts with you, so you should prioritize your well-being! Find a nice planner either physical or digital and plan. Make note of the things you need to do. Keep up to date with student emails and apps. Keep your eyes open to flyers and resources, and just ask around. There wouldn’t be resources if you are the only one struggling. Navigating college with these tips has definitely helped and improved my experience, and I hope that these tips can also help you!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Transitioning to college marks a significant milestone, but it also brings its fair share of challenges, particularly in managing stress. From academic pressures to social expectations and newfound responsibilities, the college experience can be overwhelming. I attend an institution which operates on the quarter system, making time become an even more precious commodity. The fast pace of the quarter system can feel overwhelming, leaving students feeling like they're constantly playing catch-up.

However, it doesn't have to be a constant battle against stress. Whether it's time management, self-care practices, or seeking support, this guide aims to empower students to find balance amidst the demands of college life; finding balance is not only possible but essential for thriving in college.

Understanding the Quarter System

At UC Davis, the quarter system condenses the academic year into three ten-week terms, making each quarter feel like a sprint rather than a marathon. While this structure offers flexibility and the chance to explore a variety of subjects, it also means that students need to adapt quickly to new courses, professors, and expectations every few months. The rapid pace can lead to stress and burnout if not managed effectively.

Strategies for Navigating Stress

1. Effective Time Management:

• Utilize tools like planners or digital calendars to organize your schedule.
• Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance to ensure you're focusing your energy where it matters most.

2. Self-Care Practices:

• Make time for activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, whether it's exercise, meditation, or simply taking a walk outside.
• Get enough sleep each night to support cognitive function and overall well-being.
• Don't forget to nourish your body with healthy meals and stay hydrated throughout the day.

3. Seeking Support:

• Don't hesitate to reach out to professors or academic advisors if you're struggling with coursework. They're there to help you succeed.
• Lean on friends, family, or support groups for emotional support during challenging times.
• Take advantage of campus resources like counseling services or tutoring centers if you need additional assistance.

Cultivating Resilience and Well-Being

Navigating stress in college isn't just about managing the demands of academic life; it's also about fostering resilience and well-being. By implementing effective strategies for managing stress and prioritizing self-care, students can cultivate the resilience needed to navigate the ups and downs of college life successfully.

The quarter system at UC Davis, like any fast-paced academic environment, can be demanding and stressful. However, by implementing strategies for effective time management, prioritizing self-care practices, and seeking support when needed, students can find balance amidst the chaos. Remember, college is not just about academic success but also about personal growth and well-being. By prioritizing both, students can thrive in college and beyond, equipped with the resilience needed to overcome any challenge that comes their way. 

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Spring is here! Many students have returned from spring break and are now headed full-speed to the end of the term. With the stress of impending exams and project due dates it’s easy to not take time to prioritize yourself first and pause to take in Spring. Here are some of my favorite things to do to make the most of this season!

Outdoor study sessions

This perfect in-between weather allows for the opportunity to sit out in the sun and study. Finding a great, quiet place to study on campus such as a park or courtyard will enhance your focus with the fresh air. Invite your friends to come with you and step out of your apartment or dorm.

Stay active

Take your workout outside! Whether it's going for a run, playing sports, or taking a walk, physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels. An after class walk around your campus with your friends is one of the best mood boosters for the semester.

Spring cleaning

Take time and declutter and organize the space around you. Having a clean and tidy space will motivate you to get through your midterms and finals which are around the corner. Every day try to make your bed and clean your desk to start and end your day.

Plan a trip

After those midterms you deserve a break from studying and the campus. Book a trip home or to one of your favorite places. Take the time to unwind and relax from the school setting and let your mind focus on yourself to take a breath. Having something to look forward to besides the summer will allow you to take some stress off your mind.

Practice self-care

It is important to prioritize yourself during the academic year. Whether it is going on that walk, eating healthy, enjoying your favorite hobby, practicing mindfulness, make sure to do something for yourself.

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Stress and burnout are something we all face, and as college students, it is only a matter of time before we experience one of these common issues. How can both stress and burnout be better managed? Here are some tips and tricks that tremendously helped me:

Switch up your routine

If you’re like me, then a routine is crucial to help you stay organized and efficient when going through your daily responsibilities. However, the same routine over an extended period can become monotonous. To help keep things fresh, re-arrange your routine every few months to trick your brain into thinking it’s doing something new.

Have a designated work area

With remote work/school becoming more prevalent in the last few years, the line between both work and play has become blurred. As a result, your home which used to be a place of relaxation has become a second office. Not being able to take a step back from academic and professional responsibilities can exacerbate stress levels and make it feel as if you have no breaks. One way to help mitigate these feelings is to have specified areas of work. Some of these places could be the school library, the office, a coffee shop, or a specific room in your home. Try to keep your work confined to these areas so you’re not bringing it along into other aspects of your life.

Implement self-care into your daily routine

‘Self-care’ is a phrase that is often used, and most people will have a specific self-care routine or evening. Although that is a nice way to treat yourself on occasion, self-care doesn’t have to be some big ritualistic thing performed infrequently. Little acts of self-care daily provide little goals for you to work towards throughout the day. For example, if you complete two hours of work then afterwards allow yourself to eat a sweet treat or 15 minutes on your phone. Small incentives such as those can help you to stay motivated throughout the day.

Block out your work

When you first receive a project or assignment, looking at the “big picture” can be daunting. Instantly you will feel both discouraged and deterred. Instead chunk out portions for you to complete over time. This will help you to feel accomplished throughout the process as you’ll be hitting milestones throughout. It should also help alleviate stress levels.

De-compress after a long day

The “daily grind” can be exhausting, which is why it is important to provide yourself with an outlet to de-compress and recharge for the next day. This can be accomplished through something as simple as journaling, getting some exercise, or spending time with friends and family…whatever activity that helps you to relax and de-stress!

Now that I have provided some of my best tips to manage stress and burnout, I hope that you will be able to implement some of them into your routine!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Going back to campus after winter break can be an adjustment but it’s important to think of how you will stay organized throughout the semester. There will be new challenges and it is important to go in organized and prepared to eliminate as much stress as possible.

Get Organized with a Plan

At the beginning of a new semester, I love to use my Google or Outlook calendar and add the days and times of all my classes. I like to do this not only to know when my classes are but when adding other events, work etc. it is easier to visualize everything rather than keep track in your head. I also like to try and write a plan for my day and what I want to accomplish. This helps me stay on task and, besides, who doesn't love crossing off finished tasks from a list? Remember, if you don’t get everything done it's okay! I just use lists as a guide and reminder of what needs to be done. If you are a visual learner like me using these two tools can really help you stay on track and visualize your schedule to keep you organized.

Try New Things

Sometimes stress during a semester is inevitable, with a new schedule, academics and just adjusting in general, so knowing what helps you de-stress will ensure you are taking care of yourself. Every person is different so what works for someone else might not work for you. It took me a while to figure out what helps me when I’m stressed, and I realized it depends on what my mood is. Sometimes when I need a break I want to be surrounded by my friends and other times I just want to be by myself, go on a walk, or read a book. Self-care and de-stressing come in a lot of different forms so it’s important to identify what helps you.

Don’t Procrastinate

This may be the hardest part of being a college student. I feel like everyone has procrastinated at one point during their time in college. Sometimes it’s hard to balance a bunch of classes, clubs, and social life. Procrastination can cause stress because leaving all of your class work until the last minute can cause work to be turned in late, or not done correctly. Now, there are some people who thrive under pressure and save work until the last minute, but I feel like for most people that is not the case. You can try to reduce procrastination by setting a window of time for yourself when you are only going to do homework and see how much you can get done. Or try choosing a specific day to work on assignments from each class so your focus stays on one subject at a time.

Know Yourself

Organization can be tricky to figure out for yourself, but once you do it will make your life so much easier! What works for someone else might not work for you. You know yourself best and it's important to remember that. If you try something and it doesn’t work, switch it up and try a new organizational tactic. Staying organized will only help you and your mental health to have an enjoyable college experience.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

As a STEM major, I find it hard to find time to relax, especially during midterm and finals season. Sometimes it feels like too much, and I question why I chose such stressful classes. In the end, I always pat myself on the back for being able to get through the tough times, but there are a couple of actions I use to reduce stress and ensure that I don't drive myself into a wall when things get complicated.

1. Escaping with Video Games

I use video games as a means to escape reality. Sitting in front of my PC after a long day submitting assignments keeps me sane. I choose to play calm games that get me ready for bed, ones that won't add any unnecessary stress to the pile that I already have. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Unpacking: It is a chill game where you play a character that is going through different stages of her life, each represented by the new apartment she moves into. You spend time unpacking her boxes and organizing her belongings, and in doing that, you unpack her story as well.
• Tiny Glade: It has yet to be released (upcoming in 2024), but in this cozy game all you do is spend time making a castle of your own. There is no money limit, no combat, just a freeform-building game where you can let your imagination run wild.
• Stardew Valley: Although well known, I still have to give it credit for being such a fun game where you get to explore and uncover new secrets hidden in Pelican Town. You become a farmer after escaping a horrible work life, and your mission is to save your farm after your grandfather passes away. You can spend your time fishing, fighting monsters, or simply just farming. You get to decide your story, and it's a nice way to relax at the end of the day.
• Secret Cat Forest: If you're not a fan of being on your computer or gaming console, this cute game about cats is on mobile. You feed cute little kitties in a forest by fishing food, and they return the favor by bringing you little presents!

2. Spending time with loved ones

Although finding time can be difficult, it is always important to fit your friends and family into your schedule. I promise it's okay to step outside of school life even during stressful events. Laughing and having fun will make you feel much better, so here are some fun ways you could hang out with your friends…

• Picnic: Find a park near you and buy a couple of snacks. Enjoy the scenery and talk to your friends about anything! Bonus points if you bring your pets and let them play with each other.
• Painting: It doesn't matter if you're not an artist, painting is a great way to explore your creativity, and use your brain in a way that won't stress you out. It is also relatively inexpensive, especially if you use dollar-store items. The quality doesn't matter if you're with people you love.
• Coffee shop/bookstore: If you're like me, I love just browsing through books, but never really purchasing anything. I usually end up in the coffee shop inside the store, sitting and talking with my friends after we exhausted our energy by looking at every book in the store.
• Sleepover/get-together: Another inexpensive activity is just to hang out in each other’s houses, go on walks and maybe catch a Netflix movie on the couch. Getting away from your room might help you escape from the pressures of school, even if it's just for a couple of hours.

The bottom line is that whether you find a way to take a break on your own or with family or friends, doing so will help you keep your stress level under control. Do not worry and enjoy every second of your college experience.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!