The life of a college student is not always the easiest. Between classes, studying, and squeezing in time with friends, overwhelming yourself is very possible. Remember that it is important to remain calm and keep a cool head when the going gets tough and here are 10 ways to reduce your stress levels and be successful in college.

Tip #10 – Listen to music: Music is a powerful tool that can either help or hinder you. Of course we all love loud music we can dance to with our friends, but for the times when relaxation and concentration are important, it is best to choose softer music. Look through your playlists or online to find the best relaxing music that enables you to focus while it keeps you calm. You will be surprised at the amount of work you can complete when you are in an easier frame of mind. Give it a try!

Tip #9 – Eliminate Distractions: Sitting in class or studying for an upcoming test can be difficult tasks to accomplish when you do not get rid of the distractions around you. Making sure the studying environment you choose is actually beneficially to your learning is crucial. Here are a few ways to ensure that. First, if you are going to study in your room, make sure that it is kept clean and that materials unrelated to what you are doing are out of the way. This will help minimize distractions, decrease your stress, and keep your mind from wandering. If you would like to take advantage of a nice day outside then remember to go to an area free of a lot of noise and people so your mind is not taken off of your work.

Tip # 8 – Planners are useful: Setting up a schedule for yourself might seem a bit too much but when you are pressed for time on a regular basis, having a list of events and the times you need to be there is helpful. I am a strong advocate for planners (and I know, 10 bucks can be steep for a college kid but in the end, it is so worth it). Having assignments and test dates written down takes the pressure off of you to remember as much and it reduces stress because come due dates or test days there are no surprises. If you can, buy a planner and if you cannot then sticky notes in your notebook work just as well.

Tip #7 – Set up a system: Setting up a system or routine for getting things done can provide a sense of security for those who feel distressed otherwise. Making specific time for different activities helps you know when it is time to play and when you need to sit down and work. It is always fun to hang out, watch movies, and nap but remembering what you went to school for should influence you enough to set limits and prioritize your day accordingly.

Tip #6 – Ask for help: We all get overwhelmed at times and some days we just do not know how to deal with it. Those are the times when it is best to communicate that you are having a problem to either a parent, close friend, professor, or counselor. Finding someone who will understand your situation and offer advice and assistance will improve the quality of your school life and success.

Tip #5 – Eat Healthy: If someone had told me that what I ate effected my stress levels before college, I would have never believed them. Now, however, I try to eat right so I can do my best and stay healthy. Fatty and sugary foods are fine in moderation, but if that is your main food source then it’s time to change! Not only does junk food increase stress and decrease your ability to become relaxed but it provides little to no nutritional value and come final exams, you do not want to be stuck in bed. Eating foods that will fuel your body and your brain as well keep you from getting sick will increase your successfulness and decrease the stresses of missing classes.

Tip # 4 – Get organized: Binders, folders, trapper keepers, dividers, these things will save your life during a loaded semester. Being able to easily locate necessary items is a must when grades depend on it and it is important that you take care of important information such syllabi, study guides, class notes, etc. because chances are professor will not have an extra copy! No mess, no stress!

Tip #3 – Manage your time: Netflix and Hulu Plus are amazing! I love Supernatural, Breaking Bad, and—well, you get the picture. It’s easy to get caught up in conversation, TV shows, surfing the web, all of it, and no matter how many times we tell ourselves it’s time to work, nothing seems to happen. One big tip is to make sure you make time for what is important. Yes, everyone needs to let off some steam and relax but remember your degree and work hard to improve your behavior so that you are not stressing out about time crunches and you make those deadlines in no time!

Tip #2 – Study, study, study: Rome was not built in a day so do not expect to know everything about it in one. Reinforcing the material you learn on a regular basis keeps it sharp in your mind and allows you to go into class confident and able to answer any questions the teacher might throw at you. Making flashcards, reading and annotating text, and taking notes in class are all forms of studying and good habits to pick up if you do not have them already. You will be surprised at how happy you (and maybe a teacher or two) will be when you are excelling and remaining fearless in the midst of an upcoming test.

Tip #1 – Enjoy Yourself: Remember, college comes and goes just like that! Not only is it important to take it seriously but there should also be some time where you can have fun. It’s a steady climb to the top and for some, the rocks are jagged, rough, and unforgiving. However, knowing that there are tools you can use to climb up to the top will help you now as well as in your future employment. So students, get the most out of the four (or five) years at Catawba and while you’re doing that, get the most out of yourself as well.