Editorial

As classes begin, we are all setting goals and preparing to make this school year a great one.  Maybe you're saying "this semester I won't procrastinate as much" or "this year I'm going to work on my resume."  When we come back to campus from summer break, we wear not only our summer tans but also our combat gear.  After three months of rest and relaxation, we are prepared to take on anything our professors throw at us.

But too soon, that familiar feeling returns.  It appears initially as stress and eventually becomes exhaustion.  Attempting to balance school, work and our social lives has beat us down.  By midterms we are so stressed that we can barely function.  And they say these are the best days of our lives.

Maintaining good health is as crucial to our success at Marshall as attending class.  And by good health we don't mean eating a salad and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.  

The ability to stay on your feet when the tough times hit it is important to begin healthy routines while the semester is still relatively quiet.   For example, get enough sleep.  Whenever the opportunity presents itself, get a full night's sleep.  We understand this is difficult but being well-rested is crucial to your health, happiness and sanity.

Make time for yourself.  While spare time still exists set aside time to do the things you like.  Whether it's painting, reading or sitting in front of your television with a pint of ice cream, making this "me time" a routine now will make you be more likely to make it a priority when it's time to pull all-nighters.  Also, work ahead in your classes, if possible.  This will save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Finally, take a deep breath.  You're going to get stressed out.  It's ok. It happens to the best of us.  Find a release for that stress now.  Find a workout routine you enjoy, whether it be walking your dog, Zumba or PX90, and stick with it.  These routines will give your life a sense of normalcy when everything else seems out of control.  

Research papers and midterms are coming.  However, it is possible to prepare yourself for the few things we dislike about college.  Start healthy habits now. Make time for yourself, your friends and the things you enjoy.  Get ready and take on the year the way you were planning to on day one: head on.