My Evening Routine in College

One of the most important parts of college life has been establishing and sticking to my routine. As a freshman still adapting to life independently, balancing independence and responsibility has sometimes been challenging. The most helpful way I’ve found to manage my course load, clubs, job, and relationships has been through discipline and organization. No one said routines had to be boring, so here is a typical weekday evening in my life!

5:00 P.M.
I like to end my ‘workday’ at 5. I think it’s important to establish healthy boundaries between work and your personal life. After my classes are done around noon, I try to squeeze homework and school-related responsibilities in so that when 5 p.m. hits, I can focus on cleaning, relaxing, and making time for myself. 

5:30-6:00 P.M.
I like to tidy up my room for a little bit each day because I find that doing small amounts of cleaning throughout the week makes it so that I have less to do on the weekends. I play some Netflix on my laptop while I straighten up my desk, fold/put away my clothes, organize my shoes, take the trash out, and put everything else in order. 

6:00-7:00 P.M.
One of my favorite parts of freshman year has been the experience of my Living and Learning Village! Being part of the Honors Village has brought me many new friends and fun experiences. Usually, I text my friends who live with me in the Honors Quad around this time and we all head to Clark Dining Hall together for dinner. Not everyone can make it all of the time due to clubs, classes, and other commitments, but it’s nice to eat with friends regularly.

7:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M.
At least 2 times a week, my friends and I head over to Carmichael Gymnasium around this time to play some pickup basketball. We only recently started playing on an intramural team and it has been a fantastic stress reliever for me as well as great exercise. We have been able to play outdoors more often as the weather gets nice!

9:00 P.M.-10:00 P.M
Without fail, we spend some time after every basketball session relaxing and eating at Talley Student Union. Playing pickup for 2 hours always works up an appetite, so my friends and I head across the street to grab some snacks from Talley Market. This is my favorite part of the night because we have the funniest conversations here.

10:00-11:00 P.M.
After a hot shower and my skincare routine, I get in my pajamas and start getting ready for bed. I double-check my school email to make sure I didn’t miss anything, plug in my laptop, fill my water bottle, and set out my clothes for the next day. After climbing into bed and watching some Netflix, I’m ready to sleep!
Even though my routine might not work for everyone, having any routine in college is important for success. My routine gives me a sense of comfort and stability, and I encourage both incoming and current students to create their routines and build healthy habits. If your student is struggling with the adjustment to college, encourage them to contact the Counseling Center and speak with someone who can help.

Kiran,
Parent Ally