Megan Thee Stallion said “it’s a hot girl semester,” right? While most of us were bathing in our “hot girl summers” during the past three months, the next 17 weeks will be hot and heavy with work. Luckily, we’ve got tips to turn this semester of so-called pure agony into one of the most productive and self-reflective moments of your educational career.
- First and foremost, do something you love.
That might be studying a subject you’re passionate about, or getting involved in a club that allows you to be productive. There’s no easy path to becoming successful, but you can make it easier on yourself by loving what you do.
A common misconception with students is that we are on a time constraint. While graduating in four years is ideal, life doesn’t always allow for a cookie-cutter path. The reality is, even adults who have graduated come back to school to pursue other passions. Therefore, it’s never too late or early to try your hand at all of the opportunities that CSUF offers.
- “College is easy,” said no student ever.
There is a reason why Dictionary.com defined a “goal” as “the result or achievement toward which effort is directed.” Students who put in the hard work and dedication necessary to achieve their goals reap the most rewards.
Challenges allow for personal and academic growth. Rather than seeing career obstacles as a hindrance, look at them as a test of your abilities and ambition. If a rough patch in the road makes you give up without a second thought, chances are that path is not the right one.
- Take time to relax
Many full-time college students burn out by also working full time and dedicating their breaks to clubs or organizations that’ll build up their resume. The concept of hustle culture promotes students’ productivity, but neglects their overall well-being. Be careful not to overwork yourself.
- Having fun is essential in. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.
If something intrigues you, go for it. Make time to get away from your isolated study sessions and meet new people. You can learn much more by connecting with other students and exploring activities outside of the classroom. Go to that party you heard about, join Greek life, attend the club meeting catered to your major— the possibilities are endless.
- A piece of advice that is often given and not taken: never settle.
This goes for your educational career and your personal relationships. Don’t settle for unsupportive friends or an unsupportive significant other. Look for those who will support your goals and help make your college experience a positive one. Your time and effort is valuable, precious and limited. Don’t waste it on people who aren’t worth it.
- Take — we cannot emphasize this enough — advantage of resources.
There are many staff and faculty members on campus who are solely here to help students find academic success. Reach out and ask for advice. The more informed you are, the better decisions you can make to get that degree.
The worst decision you can make is a blind one.
Many students feel that they are alone with their problems, however, there are numerous campus organizations dedicated to assisting those specific needs. Fortunately, the answer to your worries could be in the building right next to your 10 a.m. class.
- Take care of your mental and physical health.
It’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of attending classes, pulling all-nighters for assignments and losing time for sleep or a social life. It’s important for students to take care of themselves whenever they can fit downtime into their busy schedules.
If you’re stressing over a project or feeling exhausted, there’s no shame in taking care of yourself. Whether that’s putting on your favorite feel-good playlist or taking a nap, little self-care moments can improve how you perform in school and outside of campus. Talk to a counselor at the Counseling and Psychological Services Office, or attend a class at the Titan Recreation Center. Do what feels right for you.
- On a more serious note, be prepared and knowledgeable about safety.
Be familiar with the campus and its surroundings. It is imperative to take precautions that ensure your safety, especially when it comes to roaming an overwhelming and intimidating 241-acre campus alone.
Make sure to save the University Police’s phone number in case you feel the need for extra security, and walk with a friend from building to building, especially late at night. Counselors are available to talk, but you can always confide in faculty members and fellow students that you trust as well.
- CSUF has a student population of over 40,000 students, each one with a unique voice. Let it be heard.
Speak up for yourself and what you believe, inside and outside of the classroom. Communicate with your professors about your grades, other students about your passions and student leaders and representatives about campus-related concerns.
While voicing your opinions may be tedious or problematic, silence will never result in change. Your seemingly minor frustration could be shared by the other 39,999 students on campus so don’t downplay your problems.
- Make the most out of everything.
Seriously. Your time in college is over before you know it. Soak up all that you can in your remaining semesters. This is your space to experiment, put yourself out there and learn from each mistake made throughout the journey. The world isn’t quite as forgiving post-graduation, so take these current moments to grow and make strides toward your goals.
There you have it, a hot girl semester bible. We can’t promise you sun-kissed skin or sea-salted hair. There will be many disheartening moments, disappointing stares at your bank account, tear-filled study sessions and occupied parking spots while you’re running late to class. However, finishing a semester with exemplary academics and enriching experiences makes up for the torture that is school. Get your overpriced parking pass and outdated MacBook ready because these city boys got nothing on us.
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