8am Survival Guide
Ellice Ellis ‘20
Before coming to college, I was a morning person. I typically would wake up early and do chores, exercise, and cook. I truly thought I was the early-bird who catches the worm.
My first 8am proved me wrong. My first semester of freshman year I had an 8am on Mondays and it was h-e-double hockey stick. I was constantly late, tired and cranky. I forgot assignments and even went to the wrong classroom sometimes.
Eventually, I learned from my mistakes and was able to thrive and get an A in the class.
I bet you’re wondering how I did it, aren’t you? Keep reading for 8am survival tips.
Set an Alarm Clock.
This tip may seem so simple but I am always surprised at students who think they can wake up “naturally” for their 8am. I personally would not recommend using your phone as an alarm. Having it next to your bed can tempt you to start scrolling on Instagram and texting friends instead of going to sleep.
Use an old-fashioned alarm clock and set it far away from your bed so you have to get up and turn it off.
Drink Water
Right after you wake up, I suggest drinking a glass of water. According to LiveStrong.com, drinking water in the morning can fire up your metabolism, hydrate you, flush out toxins, gives your brain fuel, and manages your appetite. I gravitate towards a colder glass because the icy sensation helps me wake up.
Get Ready The Night Before
There is nothing worse than forgetting your notebook, assignment or charger especially if you have a full day of classes. To avoid this, I pack my bag and pick out my clothes the night before my 8AM. This way I pop out of bed, shower and brush my teeth and can throw on my clothes and backpack and leave. I even suggest making a breakfast snack and preparing your water bottle. Developing these habits lead to a no-fuss routine.
Eat, Eat, Eat
Forgetting to eat is very common amongst college students but its
It’s not healthy, especially if you have an 8am or a long day of classes. Eating helps improve memory and concentration. I aim towards foods high in fiber like berries, nuts, apples, and oatmeal, high in potassium such as bananas and yogurt and foods high in complex carbs like beans and popcorn.
All these foods are also a healthier energy alternative to coffee. Many people become coffee-addicts in college because of stress and lack of sleep. Coffee can be an effective pick-me-up early in the morning, it tends to lead to crashes later on in the day
#TurnUp (The Music)
Listening to music in the morning and while walking to my 8am was a great way to boost my energy. Music makes a very great impact on our moods and attitudes. I would aim for something high-energy and positive with a good beat good beat. Listen to this playlist on Apple Music I made here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/playlist/get-up-go/pl.u-5gBKSVZooAj
Do Your Work The Night Before
I always thought I could go to bed and wake up at 5:30am or whatever ungodly hour to do my work…it never worked. Trying to do your assignments or the morning before class will likely produce sloppy work or you won’t understand your readings. Creating a schedule and managing your time so you have ample time to do your work and get a good night’s sleep is key.
Don’t Do It
In all honesty, if you can avoid and 8am you’re in luck. They are stressful, tiring and sometimes a strain on your mental and physical health. If that’s not realistic for you. I suggest making sure you get at least 6.5 hours of sleep and eating breakfast. Also, try to see if you can take it with a friend. That way you can hold each other accountable and struggle together.
Stay strong and keep #FightingOn during those early morning classes.
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