Lessons learned from the fall

School is a time of growing and figuring ourselves our. Last fall, I completed the second semester towards my degree at Newhouse, while also growing as an individual. 

Below are five ways I grew last semester, all of which I will bring with me into the new semester. 

Classes are the most important

It is easy to get caught up in the appeal of work, clubs and other commitments. But classes, especially at the graduate level, are a full-time job themselves.  Get involved, support your colleagues and ask for help when you need it.

Make time for yourself

Self-care is key to getting through the tough days every semester. While I do like scheduling time every week for myself, it can be tough to schedule a long period of time since school fills up most hours of the day.

I like to find something small everyday that gives me a little break. Sometimes it’s painting my nails, doing a face mask, working out, watching my favorite shows on Netflix or calling my family and friends. 

Spend time with the ones you love

Calling my loved ones is important to me. The pandemic has made all of us experts in Zoom and Facetime, so I always use those services to call home and contact friends that are in different places and time zones.

I always love having trips and plans to look forward to so I can have something to be excited for. Whether planned or impromptu, a Facetime meeting brings so much joy into the long school days.

Continue hobbies outside of school

After I finish my classes and homework, I take what little time I have left to engage with my hobbies. Running, dance, learning French, cooking and going to sports games are just a few things I fill my time with. It’s practically essential to find hobbies that can rejuvenate you when you come home after school (or before if you don’t have 8 a.m. classes).

Take advantage of opportunities

There are seemingly endless opportunities while at school. Student discounts services like Unidays helps with finances and is a hub for student discounts. Taking advantage of travel grants can help you cover that sports game you’ve always wanted to.

There are so many possibilities, but you just have to know how to tap into them. I like following Facebook for local events to go to, and I can find everything from farmer’s markets to concerts of artists I love. Student clubs give lots of freebies and they can provide a free version of what would have been an expensive investment. If I’m feeling active, I like looking at the Barnes’ Center website for upcoming events that can include trips to go rock climbing, hiking and more.