How to Find Success and Happiness in College

How to Find Success and Happiness in College

Adjusting to an entirely new way of life at college can be challenging for many students- especially those who are unaware of what they are getting really getting into. You see the outrageous, reckless parties in the movies and hear about taking the next step into adulthood from your elders, but these things are not solely what college is about. College is the beginning of a path to self discovery.

1.      Do Not ‘Know Thyself’- Keeping an open mind is crucial. Even though you may believe you have a passion for something it is important to do research on more than one career before choosing your area of study. If you attend a liberal arts school this is your time to try out new things- so take advantage of this opportunity. You may find that you love an anthropology class when you intended to go to school for physical therapy.

2.      Don’t Give Up- When your classes get challenging it is important to remember your goals and the reason why you are at college- your education. Nothing worth having comes easy and neither will obtaining your degree.

3.      Set Goals- This should be done every semester to sure that you stay on track and complete what is necessary. Your schedule can be hectic with classes, meetings, and extracurricular activities, and one can easily become overwhelmed if a schedule is not maintained.

4.      Study Plan- Have a set study plan during the week and during final times at the end of each semester. Not having a plan can lead to putting work of until the last minute which can lead to a lot of late nights, and studying too much becomes pointless when you are not paying attention or retaining information. Remember to reward yourself with study breaks or a snack.

5.      Extracurricular Activities- Be sure to not take on too much too soon. This can lead to a poor academic performance and an unnecessary feeling of being overwhelmed. Learning to balance your time is very important.

6.      Have Fun- You will not get this time back after it is gone so appreciate it, enjoy it, and try new things. When it is all over you can look back and see how much you have grown as a person.