College can be the most exciting time of your life. It can also be the most challenging.
With so much stress, it can be hard to stay motivated. There are lots of distractions while studying. Sometimes it can be tempting to give up and try something different.
Sticking it out is the right way to go. Here are some ways to help you stay motivated about your studies.
1. Pick the Right Major
Study what you’re passionate about.
It’s tempting to study something that will be practical later on.
There’s a lot of pressure to major in STEM or business. If you aren’t passionate about those things, studying them isn’t the best idea.
Statistically, liberal arts majors don’t do any worse than STEM or business majors. Just because you major in history in college doesn’t mean you’re pigeonholed in history for life.
If you aren’t studying something you’re interested in, you aren’t going to be motivated.
You don’t need to pick a major right away.
Take a variety of classes your freshman year to learn what excites you.
There’s nothing wrong with changing your major. It might mean an extra semester, but it’ll be worth it.
Studying something you like is the key to success.
2. Have Some Fun
Your studies should be your first priority.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a bit of fun.
You don’t need to party hard to have a good college experience. But staying up until two in the morning studying won’t do you much good either.
In fact, studies have shown that students who partake in cannabis in moderation do better academically.
College could be the best period of your life.
You’ll make friendships that will last forever. It’s a journey of self-discovery.
If you aren’t into partying, find other activities that you enjoy. These could include exercise, artistic activities, or even cooking.
Enjoying your experience will keep you motivated to succeed.
3. Join a Club
Clubs and extracurricular activities are a great way to have fun.
Universities usually have more clubs than you can even keep track of.
There’s bound to be a club that you’re interested in. Your university probably even has a club related to your major.
Maybe you’ll discover a new interest.
Most university clubs don’t require any fees or commitments.
As long as you aren’t a club officer, all you have to do is show up and enjoy the fun.
Clubs are a great way to meet new people. If you’re shy or have trouble making friends, check out what clubs there are.
If you don’t know how to find a club, check with the office of student affairs. They will have a list of all the clubs on campus. Your resident assistant or an upperclassman can point you in that direction.
Universities can’t have clubs for everything. If you have a hobby that doesn’t have a club yet, start one.
Staying engaged in campus life will keep you motivated.
4. Think Big
It can be easy to lose the big picture.
You’re not going to be in college forever. College is a stepping stone.
Once you graduate, you’re going to pursue your dream job. Having good grades is the best way to achieve that.
Think about every exam and test as a hurdle towards your bigger goal.
Putting things in perspective will help you stay motivated. When things start to get overwhelming, focus on putting one foot in front of the other.
Even a marathon is won one step at a time.
5. Establish a Routine
A good study routine is the key to success.
Here are tips on how to establish good study habits.
Universities are about studying and learning. If you’re not succeeding in your studies, you’ll be less motivated to continue.
You don’t need to be the smartest student in the class to succeed.
Half of the battle is staying organized and working hard.
A good routine includes a good sleep schedule, a healthy diet, and study time.
Staying on top of your studies should be your top priority.
Conclusion
College can get overwhelming, but hang in there. Stay focused on your studies and don’t lose perspective. You will make it to the end.
