Akhya Shriti ( 2332003)

Bachelors in Mass Communication and Journalism

Hey everyone, Akhya Shriti here! Let’s be honest, college life can be a wild ride. Just like everyone else, I’ve been there: late nights, missed classes, questionable food choices (hello, maggie!) and even forgetting medication sometimes. But here’s the surprising thing: college has also helped me develop some pretty awesome healthy habits, almost without even realizing it! College is a funny, FUNNY place….. It makes you into a refined person, especially when ‘You’re on your own, kid’.

I used to skip breakfast all the time (big mistake). Now, I’m totally obsessed! It all started because I wanted to get the ₹22,500 worth. Now, I literally dream about breakfast the night before, and that craving gets me out of bed and ready to tackle the day. Bonus tip: This “craving trick” works for healthy foods too! Eating breakfast keeps me energized and focused during those long classes.

Like many people, I was also one of those people who was intimidated to go to the gym and workout alone because obviously everyone is going to look at me working out instead of following their routine. But the motivation to stay fit got me and my friend to sign up for the membership. Now we both hold each other accountable. It feels so amazing to complete a busy day at college and then focus on our body. It’s something that cannot be explained but can only be experienced.

Let’s be honest, time management wasn’t exactly my forte. Missing classes due to late starts, exams where I could’ve aced it if only I’d arrived on time—the struggle was real. Who hasn’t sacrificed a good night’s sleep or a balanced meal for “just one more episode?” (We’ve all been there!) Thankfully, college became my knight in shining armor, teaching me a valuable lesson: the power of effective time management. Let me tell you, alarms became my best friend, and guess what? This “lazy bummer” (guilty!) is now a pro at showing up on time for class, exams, and (bonus points!) a more consistent dinner schedule. So, to all my fellow procrastinators out there, there’s hope! We can all conquer this time management thing, one strategic alarm at a time.

All my life I have been that one person who is super outgoing, the friend everyone gravitates towards (or, as you psychology buffs might say, an extrovert). But college threw me a curveball. Don’t get me wrong, I’m incredibly grateful for my incredible group of friends here—supportive, fun, and the whole package. However, amidst the constant social whirl, I discovered a new side of myself: the need for solitude.

It wasn’t a rejection of my friends, but rather a self-exploration. Spending time alone, which might have scared me before, became a cherished practice. College has become a space for me to embrace my own company, to find comfort and joy in quiet introspection.

This shift has surprised me, but in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that growth often comes in unexpected forms. Who knew a social butterfly like me could find such peace in quiet moments of solitude?

College life can be draining! Now, I pretty much collapse on my bed the second I get back to my hostel. What started as planned naps has turned into a regular sleep schedule, and let me tell you, it’s glorious! I used to rely on coffee to get through the day, but honestly, I ditch the coffee now to ensure I get that amazing sleep every night.

College can be a messed up place, but it’s you in the end who have to make things right for yourself and try to adapt to a healthy lifestyle. That is going to make your time in college a hundred times more worth it.