University Students Life – 10 Tips for Living Away from Home

Attending University is an exciting and sometimes stressful time for many students. For many, it’s the first time they’ve been away from home living independently. To make sure you’re successful both educationally and personally, be purposeful about your student life and follow these 10 tips for living away from home.

1. Choose a place to live that feels comfortable and someplace you will be happy to come home to each day. You’ll be spending a lot of time in your new home, so don’t settle for someplace you can deal with, but choose a space you can’t wait to move in to.
2. Get to know the area. Go exploring so you know your way around campus and the surrounding area.
3. Get involved. Join campus groups that are affiliated with what you love, whether it is playing sports, creating art, or making music.
4. Be intentional about making friends who share the same interests and values. Your friends become your family, so choose friends who will help and support you, but who will be fun to hang out with too.
5. Organize your time. There’s no one to tell you what to do and when, so get a day planner or use your phone to make a schedule. Between classes, studying, work, and meetings, you need to be organized to be successful.
6. Make healthy choices. There’s also no one looking over your shoulder making sure you don’t eat candy bars for breakfast each morning. Take the initiative to eat a balanced diet and exercise. Try to get a good night’s sleep on a regular basis.
7. Make a budget and stick to it. Every student’s financial situation is different, but write down all your expenses and come up with a plan to manage your money.
8. Make time for fun. Schoolwork can easily take over your life, but try to find a balance. Plan fun breaks such as watching a movie, gaming with friends, or playing sports.
9. Stay connected to home. Talk to family and friends on a regular basis. They want to hear how you’re doing at school so make it a regular habit to connect with loved ones.
10. Ask for help if you need it. This adjustment isn’t always easy, but help is available. If you’re struggling emotionally, talk to a counselor or friend. If academics are harder than you thought, look for a tutor or speak to your professor about extra help. – David Siura –