Habits That Actually Make My College Life Easier (From a Senior Who’s Done the Most)
September 4, 2025 |
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I’m a senior at Miami and I have juggled classes, orgs, jobs, and a GPA above 3.9, and somehow I have survived to tell the tale. I don’t say that to flex (okay, maybe a teeny bit), but to prove that I know what habits actually make college life smoother (at least for me). Whether you’re just stepping onto campus or already halfway through, here are the little things that keep me sane (important!) and thriving.
Organization & Time Management
- Put everything on Google Calendar
If it’s not on my GCal, it literally doesn’t exist. Between meetings, deadlines, and dinner plans, my brain would crash without it. Also, once you get to college, you will see that almost everyone and everything works with Google Calendar. So, get on it. Bonus: nothing feels more put together than watching those neat little color blocks guide your day. - Prepare the night before
Senior me doesn’t do the “what do I wear?” panic at 8 a.m. anymore. I lay out my outfit, pack my bag, and charge my laptop before bed. Future me wakes up feeling like she’s already halfway winning. - Organize notebooks smarter, not harder
I used to lug five separate notebooks in my cute tote bag… until my shoulders screamed. Now I use one big notebook with dividers for multiple classes. Same notes, less pain, and my tote bag thanks me. It’s also recommended to organize them by class dates. For example, I have two classes every Tuesday and Thursday, so I use one notebook with a divider in the middle. Repeat for Monday and Wednesday. - Handwritten notes > endless screen time Unless I absolutely need my laptop, I keep it shut during class. Phone too. They’re BIG distractions, regardless of what you tell yourself. Writing by hand helps me remember better, and it keeps me present instead of doomscrolling under the desk. Trust me, this pays off in the long run.
- Brainstorm your routine before the semester starts
Each semester, I sketch out an ideal week/routine: when I’ll study, when I’ll hit the gym, and when I’ll recharge. Spoiler: life never sticks to the script, but having that skeleton plan makes adjusting so much easier.
Health & Energy
- Learn basic nutrition
College dining halls and vending machines are sneaky. One week you’re living on iced coffee and chips; the next you can’t focus in class. Pay attention to what fuels you vs. what makes you crash. Your brain is part of your body, and it needs good fuel. - Stay active
With meetings, classes, and late-night study sessions, it’s easy to stay glued to your chair and bed. But movement is magic: a walk across campus, a quick stretch, or gym time clears my head and keeps my energy steady. Plus, Miami has really stepped up its fitness facilities game, so take advantage of everything.
Boundaries & Independence
- Say NO (without guilt)
As someone who has been on too many committees at once, let me say this: saying no feels uncomfortable at first. I used to feel guilty, like I was letting people down. But guess what? The world kept spinning, the event still happened, and I had time to breathe. Protect your time, and know that saying no is powerful. - Look first before asking
Your professors, advisors, and supervisors will appreciate you more if you check the syllabus or website before firing off a question. It’s not about never asking, but about showing initiative first. It makes you look capable (which you are).
Mindset & Resources
- Befriend shame/cringe
I’ve tripped in the dining hall, mispronounced words in class, and walked into the wrong lecture room. Did it feel awkward? Yes. Did anyone care two minutes later? Absolutely not. Laugh it off and keep going. That’s literally how everyone gets through college. - Use the resources you are already paying for
Student Life accounts, tutoring centers, career offices, and mental health services are all free and they’re all for you. Even as a senior, I still use them. Don’t wait until you’re drowning; these resources are meant to catch you before you sink.
College isn’t about perfection, but systems. These habits carried me through 3.9+ GPAs, back-to-back meetings, and way too many commitments. Build habits that protect your time, energy, and sanity, and you’ll find your rhythm too. You’ve got this!
Chi Truong | Class of 2026