School is important, and we should perform to the best of our ability, but we were never supposed to choose it over our mental health, physical health or relational health. So, put the textbook down and go outside. Have a long dinner with your friends. Watch a movie. Remind yourself that school is not all there is to life. It’ll work wonders.

How should we address these types of controversial questions? We need to be able to create safe spaces for these discussions. That means acknowledging that everyone’s experiences are valid, recognizing that their political philosophy does not determine their worth as a human being and using respectful rhetoric.

Knowing this doesn’t magically solve your problems, and it certainly doesn’t make life any easier. The struggles you face will be present regardless of this knowledge. But “life sucks, and then you die” can serve as a reminder that you’ve been here before, you will be here again, and, despite that, you’re still standing.

Remember, you’re the author of your own happiness. It’s no one else’s job to make your day more fun — only your own. So, if you find yourself growing to despise the humdrum of the daily grind, don’t let the negativity and boredom take over. Create a little game, task or challenge to keep yourself entertained.

Heavy class loads often make opportunities for free time few and far between, but it’s important to keep your body healthy, and that includes working out. Whether you pick HOTWORX, Pure Barre, Club Pilates or the McLane Student Life Center, workout classes are a great option.

Whether or not someone grew up with a foreign language influence in their life, anyone at any stage can learn a new language with the right amount of effort. If you need some reasoning as to why you should make learning a new language a priority in your busy schedule, there is no shortage of amazing benefits to having a bilingual brain.