Busy, Stressful Day At The University

Busy, Stressful Day at the University

It’s two months into this trimester in Costa Rica, and the work load is firing up. Planning is key, because we only have another month left in this country, living the Pura Vida.

I would admit that this week has been stressful, and certain days of the week are both a blessing and hard. And it hasn’t been just me complaining, I’ve talked to fellow international students about how they are feeling.

The overall consensus: busy, stressed out with the amount of projects and homework they have to do, and eager to relax again and travel on the weekend.

What would qualify as a busy, stressful day at the University?

My test is at 1 p.m. but I have a class from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., how am I going to study?

My advice is to always study a day in advance (or at least know the majority of your material) when you know you have a quiz or exam. You never know what your schedule will be like the day of the exam; you might wake up late or not have had your coffee. But at least you would know the majority of the material, and you would not have to cram at the last minute.

Stuck at Computer

My assignments are due in an hour, I still need lunch, and I need to interview a local student for my Spanish class.

Students are always milling about in the hallways, cafeteria, or the plazoletta. Seek out a local to talk to; it will take about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how many questions you have. Maybe eat lunch with them–it will make the conversation feel more natural. Plus, you will get your lunch in before class.

gallo pinto, costa rica specialty

Then start on your assignments. It’s good to have a clear head about you when you start a new task. And if it helps, make a list of things to do for the day and plan creative ways to accomplish your goals.

Amanda paints mural

Back to back classes, homework is half-way finished, the library has no more computers. All the computer labs are full of classes.

If this is your busy, stressful day you are in luck. Wifi connection at Veritas is great; you can get service pretty much anywhere in the building. The best place to go when there are no more computers in the computer lab or library is the plazoletta. Sure, people may walk by you, but it’s open, it has internet connection, and the sun is great. Are you lacking a laptop? No worries, use your phone for the time being and wait for a computer to open. Patience is a virtue, and you can still be productive.

Smiling in the plazoletta

My head hurts, I haven’t gotten any sleep in two days, and I’m drowning in homework and projects.

When does your next class start? 1 p.m., great! It is 10 a.m. right now. Put on an alarm, and take a nap.

Naps are good for you–just don’t abuse them. You still have work to do.

• 30-Minute Maximum: When taking a nap longer than 30 minutes, you run the risk of heading into deep sleep, which will leave you feeling tired and groggy. Naps as short as 1 to 2 minutes could be effective for some people.
• Set an Alarm: You will eventually train yourself to nap for the amount of time you set aside. Until then, set an alarm or ask someone to wake you up.

——-Napping Tips

Naps help refresh your mind and your body, and are good to take, especially when you have a long day.

1. Take a 20-minute nap (or less) to boost alertness and productivity during the day.
2. Nap in the late morning or early afternoon. If you wait until late in the day, you may wake up groggy and disturb nighttime sleep.
3. Avoid caffeine and sugar before your nap.
4. Make sure you don’t eat food that is particularly hard to digest, which may keep you from falling asleep.
5. Find a quiet place to sleep, where noises won’t disturb you.

—-Great advice for taking a nap

Hey college student!! How much water are you drinking daily?

Your water intake is a crucial factor in how you function throughout the day. If you  are always dehydrated and sleepy, it might mean that you need to drink more water throughout the day.