College Life
4 No-Fail Ways to Manage Your Mental Health in College
College students around the world have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, both in their academic as well as social lives. Not only have many classes transferred to an online format, but the entire routine of going to class, eating with friends, and going out on the weekends has come to a halt.
College is already a time where young people tend to disregard their mental health, but the pandemic has raised this issue to a new height, by taking away the daily routines that students use to stay healthy and productive.
Despite the plethora of new found obstacles that college students have faced during this pandemic, the resiliency of young people cannot be underestimated. Even when so much has been taken away from the “best four years of their lives”, students continue to find ways to stay optimistic and happy during these trying times.
I interviewed three students at Wesleyan University in order to get a better understanding of how college students are taking care of their mental health and was met with many strategies current students are using to manage their mental health.
1. Self-Care
“Aside from attending therapy once every two weeks, one of the big ways that I manage my mental health in college is through self-care. Self-care looks different for many students, but to me, it’s about taking the time that I know I deserve to relax and turning on some music or spending time with friends,” said Darielis Rivas class of ‘23.
During a time where most people are concerned about catching, and or spreading COVID-19, self-care may seem like an afterthought, but keeping up with our own health outside of the pandemic is essential, and its importance cannot be overstated.
As Rivas states, self-care looks different from person to person, but what it comes down to is finding the activities that allow you to relax, bring you joy, or simply take your mind off what is going on in the outside world. Another student had a different approach towards keeping track of his mental health:
2. Be Active
“My mental health declines whenever I’m not active and just letting myself stew in boredom so I’ve found the best way to cope with that is just to be active and not get stuck in this cycle of boredom where I feel like I’m not accomplishing anything,” said Joseph Seen ‘23.
The boredom that Seen described has been drastically exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic for many students. Yet, feelings of boredom and loneliness have a few solutions. The challenge is to get up and do something––even if the motivation to do so can be difficult to find.
3. Break the Cycle of Routine
“When I feel like I’m being reclusive in my dorm or stuck in some kind of monotonous cycle, I’ll try to do something that breaks that cycle by just getting me out of my dorm or wherever I feel like I’ve been spending too much time like running or going to do something with friends,” said Seen.
In many ways, mental health is all about cycles and patterns that students tend to fall into. Some of these cycles are positive, and we need to motivate ourselves to continue them, and some are negative and we must try to break them, even if this is a daily struggle.
Maintaining positive cycles is most beneficial for some, whereas for others, breaking negative patterns help them the most. The variety of ways that young people are able to maintain their mental health is very broad. It is truly a personal journey that we must all take, to find the things most important to keep, as well as eliminate from our weekly routines.
4. Keep in Touch With Your Loved Ones
“I think being away from home is hard for me, but it isn’t really hard until you find that moment when you’re alone and have nothing to distract you. Keeping in contact with my family is what helps me. Texting and calling or even just seeing their face on video and photos really just helps me emotionally.” said Kelly Nano-Miranda class of ‘23 at Wesleyan University.
As Rivas found comfort in self care, and Seen did in breaking negative habits, Nano-Miranda sees family as the center point for her mental health, in the often lonely environment, that is a college campus during a pandemic.
Whether these responses resonate with you or not, they do prove one vital point, college students cope with their mental health in many different ways, and it’s okay to be unsure of your preferred method. While there is no rush to find a perfect solution, the first step to that solution is being honest with yourself about the state of your mental health.
Reflect on when you are most happy, comforted, content, as well as most sad or stressed, and start to categorize which routines, or lack thereof in your life, tends to make you feel these emotions.
College Life
30 Amazing Gifts for College Girls in Your Life-The Ultimate 2021 Guide
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No one goes anywhere without their phone. Also, college students are frequently on their devices. With that comes the constant need to make sure your phone is charged. A portable phone charger is one of the best gifts for a college girl.
She can take this with her in her purse or backpack so she can charge her phone wherever she is. Just plug a charging cord into the power bank and she is good to go. Selfie-taking, social media checking or text messaging can continue––no matter the battery percentage.
2. Charging Station
Having to charge multiple devices at the same place can be frustrating. The cords can tangle, and having to find space and plugs for all of them can be difficult, especially if you are in a dorm.
That is why a charging station for all of her devices can be very useful in a single spot. She can place this on her desk or dresser and charge everything in one compact area. This is a smart, problem-solving idea.
3. Iced Coffee Maker
A way to help save your favorite college student money on coffee is to buy her an iced coffee maker. She can make her favorite caffeinated beverage in her dorm room or apartment.
This useful appliance can be small and easily stored, saving space. She can make iced coffee or cold brew, whatever she prefers.
4. Coffee Tumbler
Coffee tends to be the caffeination method of choice after a late night of studying or Netflix bingeing. With the constant need for caffeine comes the need to have something to take their caffeinated beverages on the go.
That is why a coffee tumbler is a perfect gift. Pairing a tumbler with an iced coffee maker can make a caffeine-addicted girl’s day.
They can come in different sizes, colors, with a straw or without a straw. You can find one that fits her personality and lifestyle perfectly.
5. ‘You are Loved’ Coffee Mug
Again, caffeine addiction is the norm for college students, so get her this mug! It showcases how much she is loved and cared for, even though you may not be together.
It may seem cheesy, but she will adore it. Plus, it is never too late to start building up a mug collection.
6. Coffee Gift Cards
As mentioned above, caffeine and coffee are essential parts of a college student’s day. That means a lot of money is spent buying coffee from their favorite coffee places.
A gift card to their favorite coffee spot is great for college girls. If they are going to buy coffee at least a few times a week, no matter what, a gift card will help save them a few dollars.
7. Water Bottle
Hydration is very important, especially after consuming substantial amounts of coffee. And sometimes with a busy schedule, it can be hard to remember to drink enough water.
Plastic water bottles can get expensive and are bad for the environment, which is why every college girl needs a reusable bottle.
Not only will this remind her to stay hydrated, but it lowers the amount of waste she is producing and saves her money.
Also, getting one with time markers on the bottle will motivate her to drink her water throughout the day. Mixing that with the various color, size and design options creates the best gift.
8. Reusable Straws
These have been on the rise over the last few years. Whether it’s a metal straw or a rubber straw, many people are buying their own reusable ones.
So this is definitely one of the best gifts for a college girl if she does not already have her own set.
They are easy to clean for those who live in dorms, especially if they come with a cleaning brush.
It is also an environmentally friendly replacement for plastic straws. These straws can be perfectly gifted with a water tumbler.
9. Notebooks
With classes comes the need to take notes. While some may prefer to take notes on a laptop, taking hand-written notes can help students process concepts more easily.
Notebooks do not have to be boring-colored; there are so many different colors and designs. This is one of the best gifts for college girls.
You can find one that represents her personality and will make note-taking a little less boring.
Find a floral print, bright color, one with a geometric pattern, or even one you can put her name on. Help make her semester brighter with a fun notebook.
10. Bath Bombs
Who doesn’t love a relaxing bath after a long week of classes? A set of bath bombs allows for anyone to upgrade their weekend relaxation.
Bath bombs not only add color to the bath but also contain elements like essential oils, Epsom salt, cocoa butter or coconut oil.
These allow for the optimal relaxation experience for every college girl. A set of bath bombs in various scents is just what she needs.
11. Leggings
College girls are all about comfy clothes. That means leggings are a great gift for them. They can never have enough pairs of leggings.
They may already have five pairs of black leggings, but one more pair would not hurt. Get her a pair in a unique color or with a fun design on the leg to change up the collection.
If they have pockets, that is a plus. Comfort is key, and leggings are just that.
12. Weighted Blanket
Everyone needs a blanket. A weighted blanket is a unique blanket that contains a layer of glass beads that makes the blanket heavier.
The blanket is supposed to help you relax and sleep better. The dorm beds are not always the comfiest, and adjusting to a new bed may be difficult.
So, this blanket may help make adjusting easier. The weighted blanket has become popular over the last few years, making this a top gift for any college girl.
13. The Comfy
This is the perfect gift for any college girl that lives for comfy clothes. This is an oversized, hooded blanket sweatshirt. It will keep her warm and cozy at all times.
The Comfy is perfect for lounging around while doing schoolwork or watching movies. It comes in various colors and is one-size-fits-all.
Give her the gift of ultimate comfort with The Comfy.
14. Bluetooth Speaker
Who does not love music? The love of music brings us to the next item on our list: a Bluetooth speaker.
She can blast her favorite songs, dance like nobody’s watching or play some study tunes as she does work.
A Bluetooth speaker is a must-have for any college student. It can turn any situation, even just hanging out in your room alone, into a party.
15. Bluetooth Headphones
Bluetooth headphones are a good on-to-go alternative to a Bluetooth speaker.
Most people love to walk to and from class listening to their favorite music. So, Bluetooth headphones or earbuds are a perfect gift for any college girl.
They have various styles and brands that range in price online. Whether she likes over-the-ear headphones or in-ear earbuds, there are ones that will be just right for her.
Easy to store and to throw in a bag, these are the perfect gift for any music-loving girl.
16. Jade Roller
Jade rollers have become more popular over the last year or so. If she does not already have one, the college girl in your life will love this.
This is for your face and eyes. It is supposed to massage your face, remove wrinkles, make your face look younger, rejuvenate the skin, help with blood circulation, etc.
This is the perfect present for girls who are especially into skincare.
17. Laptop Case
This gift is useful and cute. Students do a lot of work on their laptops, especially with online classes.
Keeping that important device protected is important, making a laptop case one of the best gifts for a college girl.
However, it does not have to be a boring case.
They have them in many different colors or patterns, and some even come with a keyboard color. They can even add some stickers to make it more personalized.
18. Portable Laptop Desk
Doing lots of work on a laptop means finding the best place to sit and put the device. While a desk or table is logical, it can get boring or uncomfortable.
Getting her a portable laptop desk will allow her to change where she does her work while also having a sturdy place.
It can elevate the laptop to prevent her from getting pain from hunching over and has cushions so she can place it on her lap comfortably.
It may even have pockets where she can put her phone or other devices. The size will allow her to take it from room to room, depending on where she wants to work. She will love this useful gift.
19. Overnight Duffle
A great overnight bag is always good for everyone to have. However, for college girls, having a bag to use when they visit home or friends is important.
Get her a bag that can be easily transported to and from campus and can hold everything she may possibly bring. If she has a bag, she may visit you more, which is a bonus.
Also, if it has a matching bag for toiletries, that is useful. Get her an overnight bag to make visits from your favorite girl easier.
20. Smartphone Picture Printer
Pictures capture some of our favorite memories. They are also a great way to decorate a dorm room or bedroom.
However, sometimes having to go somewhere to have pictures printed can prevent us from having all the pictures we want.
However, a picture printer that prints photos from a phone through Bluetooth can solve that problem.
This printer will allow her to print out every selfie she takes of herself or with her friends, pictures from her favorite vacation, spots on campus or memories with her family.
She can do this from the comfort of her room. All she needs is her phone and some photos she wants to print.
21. Photo Clip String Lights
String lights are another popular decoration among college girls’ rooms. This set of string lights allows for her to hang her favorite pictures from the lights.
She can take the photos from her personal photo printer and hang them from her lights, making the perfect combination.
22. Skincare Facemasks
Skincare is important for many people, especially college girls. This means one of the best gifts for her is some sort of a facemask.
It can be a sheet mask, peel-off mask or clay mask. There are several different brands and types out there that have different benefits.
While she’s in college, a set of facemasks is a great addition to not only a girl’s skincare routine but also her self-care and relaxation routine.
23. Light Up Make-up Mirror
Having a good mirror to do hair and make-up in is crucial.
This mirror is perfect for college girls, especially if they do not have their own bathroom in their dorm rooms.
They can store it until they need it. The lights will help give her the perfect lighting for getting ready before she leaves for the day.
24. Tapestry
A tapestry is a staple in any college girl’s room. This is an easy way to personalize a space.
If she does not already have one or several tapestries, your girl will love this present. The possibilities of what you can get on a tapestry are endless.
It can be floral, space-themed, spiritual, a quote, a face, a random pattern, colorful, black and white, large, small and more. Whatever her interests are, chances are there is a tapestry that will match.
25. Snackbox
Who doesn’t love snacks? College girls will always appreciate free snacks. So give her the gift of a care package full of them.
A box full of her favorite chips, cookies, crackers or candy is just what she needs to help get her through her classes.
These snacks will be perfect between and during classes, while watching a movie, or for some late-night study sessions. The snacks will not go to waste, that is for sure.
26. Five-Year Memory Journal
The memories you make in college are some that you are going to want to remember forever. A five-year memory journal allows for any college girl to document her years at school and maybe even sometime after.
This gift allows her to write down one a line every day for five years, summarizing her day so she can then look at it years later.
This unique and sentimental gift provides a way to document some of the most formative years in a girl’s life.
27. Going Places Necklace
This item is perfect for this list. It has a compass charm that symbolizes personal strength despite the distance between loved ones.
The necklace is simple and the perfect gift to remind her of how strong she is. Also, who doesn’t love a good, simple gold necklace?
28. Name Bracelet
Another piece of simple jewelry that is a great gift for any college girl, a personalized bracelet is a simple yet sentimental offering.
It is something that is special just for her. It can be worn almost every day, and she’ll think of you when she wears it.
29. To-do List Notepad
College can be stressful and overwhelming. Staying organized is important, and this next idea can help.
A to-do list notepad is a way she can write down what she needs to plan and accomplish every day. On some to-do lists, she can even break her day down by the hour.
This way, she can do everything she needs to do in one place and can cross things off as she accomplishes them, making a to-do list a simple and useful gift.
30. “The Easy College Cookbook”
Figuring out what to cook and how to cook can be stressful when you are a student and time is very limited. That’s why a cookbook is next on the list of best gifts.
This cookbook provides her with 75 recipes for students, especially those who live on campus.
You may not be there to teach her how to cook, but you can give her a book that will help her prep tasty college meals.
That ‘s a wrap. This post was all about the best gifts for any college girl. Hopefully, it helps you find the perfect present.
Not everyone is the same, but these ideas will be useful in some way.
This is just a starting list; you can tailor it to fit what will work best for her. However, do not overthink it. Whatever you pick out, she will appreciate it because it’s from Y-O-U.
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College Life
10 Reasons Why Being a Working Student is Actually Good
College Life
6 No-Fail Tips to Find a Job In College
Anyone who’s ever done it will tell you, searching for a job is a pain. Nowadays, with a global pandemic and an economic recession, it’s even harder to find a place in the workforce—especially for college students that need to gain work experience before entering the world after four short college years.
To help combat the odds, here’s a list of 6 tips to find a job in college and help set yourself up for after graduation.
1. Use Career Services
This really cannot be overstated enough, but just in case here it is again: use Career Services. In most colleges, Career Services is a place designed exclusively to help you find a job. They offer important services like:
- Helping you draft documents like resumes, cover letters, and writing samples
- Advise you on what career path you might find rewarding if you’re unsure
- Help you network with potential employers using college resources and alumni contacts
Career Services is really your best friend in the whole job-hunting process, so seriously, pay them a visit!
2. Utilize Your College Experience
College isn’t all just parties and exams (especially not now). A lot of your life on campus can be put to good use helping you get a job, as long as you go about it the right way. Add any activities you’ve done which you think reflect on you positively to your resume, which is pretty much all of them. A lot of it depends on phrasing. Did you “go to a club you liked”, or did you “practice interpersonal relationships in an engaging, collaboratively minded space”.
This kind of spin is an essential skill to learn when building your resume, and fleshing it out with your college experiences can really make you stand out from the crowd.
3. Use “Building Blocks” For Your Resume
One thing you’ll find out pretty quickly if you apply to a lot of different jobs, not all of them are looking for the same thing. As such, sending out the exact same resume isn’t the best idea. However, writing up a new one for every job you want to apply to is just a waste of time. The best method I’ve found is what I call ‘The Building Block Method’. First, create bite-sized chunks for your resume made out of your work experience, skills, education, and other relevant info, then swap them in and out depending on the job you’re applying to. Sending in an application for work on an ER floor? Highlight your medical training and stressful work experience that lets you deal with pressure. Applying to a library? Focus on your collected, thoughtful nature and work in administration and organization.
Having these “building blocks” you can swap in and out can make building the right resume a much easier process.
4. Network with Professors
This may be more useful depending on what field you’re looking into joining, but a lot of the time your professors can be a huge ‘in’ to the working world. If you want job experience as a lab tech, your professor might be able to help you find an experienced researcher to work with, or personally hire you! Professors might also still be in contact with alumni who’ll be very willing to take on a new employee who got the seal of approval from one of their old professors. Plus, professors can be great references and can even be persuaded to write letters of recommendation if you catch them in the right mood.
Professors are there to help you, so ask them for a hand!
5. Build a “Skill List”
This piece of advice comes from a prior employer. A skill list is a list of every job and experience you’ve ever worked, with a list of bullet points on all the marketable skills you gained from it. Maybe you were a counselor at a summer camp for three years; that gives you skills with kids, managing groups, collaborative problem solving, etc. A skill list can be really helpful in building a resume and writing cover letters. They’re also great for interviews. You don’t have to sit and think when someone asks you what your skills are—you’ve got a cheat sheet ready to go. Plus, skill lists can be a great way to reaffirm your self-esteem.
Just looking at all you can do can really help when the job search gets discouraging.
6. Go to College Run Events
A lot of schools hold job fairs, interview fairs, and networking functions to help you get out there and have your name known in the working world. The real question is why wouldn’t you go to these? College-sponsored events are a fantastic resource you have access to for a limited time, and shouldn’t let slip through your fingers.
Getting your name out there can be a huge help in finding a job, and going to events like these showcases initiative on your part; something employers love to see.
Job hunting isn’t easy at any time, especially for college students. But just because it’s hard doesn’t mean we can give up! Hopefully, these tips will help you keep looking if the going gets rough, and eventually land you a position you can be happy with as we move further into the 2020s.