As college students, stress can feel inescapable. It is essential to stick to a daily routine in order to change the trajectory of work-filled days.
University of Maryland students all try different routines to keep themselves from becoming overwhelmed.
Dilen Marra, a sophomore double majoring in psychology and criminology, makes sure to follow a scheduled day– especially because she is a part of Terps Raising Pups. The club is a group of students who raise and train future guide dogs for the visually impaired.
She wakes up at 8 a.m. because her dog, Whitney, enjoys going out around this time. She takes her outside, then makes herself breakfast and goes to class.
“After class each day, I go to Mckeldin Library and go to a study room until around 5 p.m.,” Marra said.
Getting her work done early makes the rest of her night stress-free and gives her more time to do what she enjoys. If she doesn’t complete her work on time, she feels completely thrown off.
“My day is just planned out better. I can accomplish different tasks and goals that I may have to get my work done efficiently,” she said.
Having Whitney around established a consistent routine for Marra, and she enjoys keeping a daily routine alongside her puppy.
Sophomore computer science major Evan Kidd also sticks to a daily routine and feels that having a stable schedule positively affects his mental health. He uses extracurricular activities to balance out the stress he receives from classes.
“After classes, I usually try to get to the gym every day or at least three to five times a week,” said Kidd. “If I can get that I feel much better about myself during the day.”
He also uses music as a distraction from everyday stressors.
“Another hobby I like to distract myself from work with is music; listening to music and playing music. If I don’t go to the gym for a few days or if I don’t get around to practicing guitar, I feel like it’s a day wasted,” said Kidd.
The simplest activities can make college students feel like there is more to life than just turning in assignments. Adding enjoyable aspects to your daily routine – from doing skincare in the morning to walking a mile at night – can help distract you from outside inconveniences.
Sophomore politics, philosophy and economics major Hannah DiLello has a busy schedule as well. Her morning and night routines are crucial in establishing a stable mindset.
Her nights differ as she manages her sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi–but when she gets a relaxing night in, she enjoys making dinner and watching a movie with her roommates.
“I do believe a consistent schedule is essential for a healthy mind and body,” DiLello said. “Our bodies and minds crave consistency. When I follow a routine, I feel much better about myself and am calmer. I can tackle my schoolwork and am overall less anxious.”
Establishing a routine that includes aspects that bring you happiness can create a more stable mindset and lead to a less stressful life.
Many students at UMD struggle with a work-life balance, but these students manage to find time to do things they enjoy to suppress their stress.