As a junior at Boston University, there are definitely some tips and tricks I’ve picked up during my two years here. While this is not a comprehensive list, here are the highlights.
Don’t be afraid to get involved. There are many opportunities in terms of events, clubs, classes, jobs, and internships that you can take advantage of. Although you shouldn’t feel pressured to take on more than you can handle, don’t let fear stop you from joining something because you feel you aren’t qualified or don’t have someone to attend/join with you. Most of the time, if you gather enough courage to join in anyway, it usually turns out to be better than your worries. Even if it isn’t what you hoped it would be, at least you know, and you won’t be plagued by the “what if’s.”
Manage and make the most of your time. In terms of managing your time for schoolwork, this is probably the most boring and tedious part of being a student; however, it is nevertheless important. While you don’t have to be the most organized person, you should know when the important deadlines are and what your assignments are and strive to do them in a somewhat timely manner. I do understand that this is much easier said than done given the lure of procrastination and the reality of life happens.
Despite this, managing your time is the only way to make the most of your time in college. As cliché as it sounds, time truly does go too fast. You should care to some degree about getting the most out of your classes since you’re paying enough to be in college, and no matter what you think, cramming really doesn’t work, especially in the long run. (This doesn’t mean I haven’t done it before.) However, you should also prioritize a life outside of schoolwork. This is your time to explore and grow as a person without all the responsibilities of being a full-on adult. Still, you enjoy your free time the most if you don’t have an important deadline hanging over your head.
Be nice to yourself. This is probably the most important advice I have and yet might be the hardest to do. I know a lot of BU students and prospective students are overachievers and hold themselves to high standards. While this is by no means a bad thing, it can easily lead down the slippery slope of taking on too much, burning out or not meeting your standards, and feeling guilty and blaming yourself. My advice is don’t go down that path even though it may be hard to avoid. Be patient with yourself and give yourself some grace. This is a very different time of your life and everyone goes through an adjustment period. Don’t compare yourself to others no matter the temptation. Know your limits and take care of yourself.
