Early to Bed, Early to Rise

As a college student, I'd like to discuss something humans do every day -- Sleep. You may ask "What does sleep have to do with college?" Well, I found out for myself that sleep is extremely important to being successful in college. Last Saturday I stayed up until about 4:00 a.m. just chilling out on the computer and watching T.V. Although I was up by noon Sunday, all day long I just felt out of sorts and sluggish. When I tried sit down and work on my reading and homework for school, I couldn't seem to focus on what I was doing. By the time Sunday evening rolled around, I hadn't completed any of the assignments I had planned to do that day and felt like the whole day had been a total waste. Suffice it to say that I was angry with myself. Had the next day not been Labor Day -- thereby giving me an extra day to complete my school work -- I would have been sunk. It was at that point that I realized in order for me to function at 100 percent, I would need to get my body on a schedule. That meant going to bed and getting up at set times.

I know this sounds boring for an 18 year old to be saying this, but, when you think about it, sleep serves as one of our major sources of energy. It rejuvenates the body and eases the mind. When we sleep we are storing energy that is essential to carrying out our important schedules and daily tasks. Without being well rested--that is to say getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night --you can feel weakened, lethargic, unfocused and miserable. Moreover, sleep can determine whether you stay focused and relaxed throughout the day or ill productive and sloppy. For tests, quizzes and other large projects you'll need every ounce of energy you can muster. If you're unable to understand simple directions you won't understand the problems. Lack of sleep can also impair your study habits and concentration. That is why overnight study sessions are counter productive. Think about it, I mean what good is cramming for a test when you aren't able to concentrate on the day of the test?

The best way to ensure a good night sleep is to set a respective bedtime and time to wake up; finish any school work in a timely manner; and not drink caffeinated drinks late at night. These are simple tips anyone can do to maintain healthy lifestyle and be a better student.