Monday Motivation

Even the best of us need to have a cheat day and enjoy a burger. 

The Reality of Roommates

How to survive college roommates?

When moving away to college, the idea of living with strangers can be distressing. Roommate concerns are real and normal. Living with non-family members for an extended period of time can be a challenging change as personalities clash and roommates discover who they want to become.

Every roommate and group of roommates will be different and each will provide a new college experience. Living with roommates will present many learning opportunities whether it be about each other, yourselves, or how to handle conflicts.

Leeyen Roger, from Society 19 shares some advice on getting along with college roommates, "People are unique and different, and your roommate will most likely not have the same living, studying, sleeping, and social habits and that's okay." +SOCIETY19

At the end of April, I will have lived with my third set of roommates during my college years. Through these last three years, I have learned a lot about myself and I'm still learning on how to be a better roommate. With the help of other college bloggers and personal experiences, I have collected a few tips on surviving college roommates.

Roommates 2014-2015

Communicate

Communication starts as soon the roommate information emails are sent and should be moderately maintained after your 'roommate' time period. Effective communication with roommates is crucial for having an enjoyable experience and relieving tensions that arise. It is important to note that communication won't always be clear and won't fix everything instantly; it takes constant effort.

Samantha from As Life Grows recommends, "Make sure you keep communication going once you guys move are living together...and talk to them freely." In the past, my roommates and I would communicate on what we would be bring and willing to share for that year and stayed in contact through Facebook and texting. While my current roommates and I didn't exchange summer emails and will most likely stay contact through Snapchat and Instagram.

Alone Time

Alone time is crucial for maintaining a sense of sanity while in college. This time can be spent in various ways: reading, exercising, napping, or talking on the phone. Allowing alone time with benefit yourself and your emotions, as well as your roommates, and then the time spent together will be enjoyed more.

Dorothy from Prep In Your Step shares, "In college you are surrounded by people nearly all the time so a little alone time...is nice!" In the past when I shared a room, I would spend my alone time exercising or in my car talking to my family and friends and it did help clear my mind and be more positive around others.

Roommates 2013-2014

Bond Together

Living with people in close quarters for an extended period will most likely lead to conversations, meals together, and to actually bonding with each other. Spending time together is an obvious answer but it is remarkable how much that can influence the overall experience of that year. When spending time to bond together, it can help improve other parts of the relationship.

Dorothy from Prep In Your Step recommends, "Just by offering you are allowing your roommate to see that you want to get along and you are finding ways to grow closer." In the past, my roommates and I would spend time together by baking treats and throwing water balloons at people. Currently, my roommates and I spend our time together by eating food and having movie nights.

Set Boundaries Early

Most apartments in college, the rooms are shared and the general living area is tiny; which in turns leaves roommates in very close quarters. Without open communication and already set boundaries tensions and conflicts can form very easily. Setting boundaries will create open communication on what should or shouldn't be happening and can create a sense of safety for all roommates involved.

Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 shares, "When setting your boundaries with the other person be very clear about your expectations." In the past, my roommates and I weren't good on setting boundaries on boyfriends and when the conflict rose, it was very challenging so I made sure to set that boundary the following year.

Roommates 2015-2016

Be Mindful 

As mentioned above, college apartments tend to lack in space so it is a crucial component to be mindful of the affects of actions or behaviors. When listening to music or watching a movie, opt for headphones for the studying roommate. When having friends over, opt for a warning text or message to inform roommates. Being mindful of actions and their affects can play a big part in the overall roommate experience.

Jessica Pawlarczk from College Candy and Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 recommend, "To make an effort to think about your actions affect others." In the past, my room roommate and I were very mindful in what time we went to bed and woke up, which in turned helped each other sleep despite the different habits. Currently, my roommates are great at being mindful of their actions after midnight because I'm going to bed before them.

Just Friends

Unfortunately, not every roommate relationship will follow the movies and stories of being best friends and forever involved in each other lives. Sometimes roommates don't get along and that's okay. Being civil and respectful is crucial to keep a positive, safe environment throughout the apartment.

Megan from Love Megan June and Erin from Very Erin recommend, "Don't force a friendship that isn't going to happen." In the past, I have had some roommates that I was closer to than others and had a distinct roommate that was very difficult to gain a friendship with but I still treated her with respect and always attempted some sort of conversation.

Quirks

Everyone has their own quirks, including you. Everyone has been raised different, experienced different things, and have their own opinions and outlooks on life. These difference are what makes each of us are own individual and may cause tensions or conflicts. When conflicts arise, it is important to remember that if someone's quirks are bothering you, your quirks might be bothering them too. Take a step back, breathe, communicate, and focus on the positive.


For more tips and advice on college roommates, check out my Pinterest.

What have YOU learned from roommates? Comment Below! 

Monday Motivation

Get off the couch and enjoy every moment in life. 

Monday Motivation

Create the life and body you desire now, no need to wait to begin. 

Monday Motivation

Don't let your mind stop your progress. 

Who am I

Hi, I'm Lauren. 

College is time of discovery. It is a period of time dedicated to improving oneself through education, health, and lifestyle. This school year I've taken improving my health more seriously and have discovered that many others are on this journey. So...Embracing Change in College was born. 

College is a time of change. Classes change every semester, roommates changed by the semester or year, relationships with friends and family change, and each individual can change. Not all changes are good but they give each of us an opportunity to change our outlook on the situation or life. This school I've been improving my positive outlook when facing changes or challenges. 

The journey to be a healthier college student has not been a easy or quick change but I know that improving my health and setting healthy habits now will positively impact my future. I also know that I am not on this journey alone; I have a good support system and continue to find more. 

For each person who has helped, advice, and motivated me on my journey, I thank you and I hope that through this blog I can help others who are on their own fitness journey.

Thank you to all current readers and welcome to all new readers. 

Monday Motivation

Clear your mind of can't because you can. 

Monday Motivation

The journey isn't easy but it is always worth it.

Monday Motivation

Don't Quit. Be stronger than your excuses. 

How to Study Better

It is no secret that there are many differences between high school and college. College students have very different living arrangements, social lives, school/work schedules, and meals compared to most high school students.

One difference between high school and college are the tests & studying for them. In high school, many tests could be passed with a brief read-through of the notes the night before or the morning of. In college, many tests could be passed with a long, tiring cramming of notes the week before or pulling an all-nighter the night of. Learning that difference can be a hard lesson to learn.

There are millions of results when googling "college studying tips" that include articles, opinions, research, and info-graphics. All this information can be overwhelming for any college student searching for a new studying technique so it's crucial to remember that every college student is different. Every college student will have a different experience with studying for exams; take note on what works for you and what doesn't.

Here's college student tested tips or techniques on getting better test scores:

Megan June reveals of some of her studying secrets:

• Be organized 
• Have goals
• Go to tutoring or office hours
• Study every day
• Rewrite your notes
• Make flashcards 
• Know what to do before/after class
• Turn off the distractions
• Take breaks
• Study groups
• Make a list of questions. 

Samantha shares her insights on studying:

• Actually pay attention in class. 
• Take good notes 
• Read over your notes daily. 
• Make note cards 
• Study hard 
• Don't be afraid to use the internet
• Get some rest
• Get up early to review
• Go to class with confidence 

Rachel defines some DON'Ts on studying:

• Don't save it until the last minute
• Don't be cluttered with distractions. 
• Don't avoid sleep. 
• Don't underestimate the time you should set aside to study.
• Don't underestimate all the material that you will need. 
• Don't only cram in sutdying in between all of your other stuff. 
• Don't look at something once and move on. 
• Don't study or memeoriaze material without understanding it. 
• When studying with someone else. Don't move on if you still don't get it. 
• Don't be scared to go to office hours

For more ideas & tips check out my Pinterest.

What are YOUR studying tips? Comment Below! 

Monday Motivation

You are getting better & stronger with every step. 

Love Yourself

In college, your adventures will have you surrounded by different kinds of people: roommates, classmates, friends, neighbors, significant others, etc. These people can have a different influential power on your college experience whether it be for a class, a semester, a year, or your whole experience. But there is one more crucial person that can influence your college experience...

You.

College is a time of learning. A time to learn about your future career, surviving on your own, dating, and to learn about you. You can also learn about depression, stress, anxiety, and the commonality of social comparison. College is real, the lessons you learn are real, and the greatness in you is real.

Valentine's Day is often the celebration between significant others to express their love, gratitude, and affection towards one another. For some singles students it is a dreaded holiday with a thin silver lining -- discounted chocolate on the 15th. For some couples it is difficult to plan or buy something special for their 'valentine.' 

This Valentine's Day, I challenge each reader (single & taken) to celebrate this day by loving yourself more. 

Loving, accepting yourself is a crucial when surrounded by so many people. When you love yourself and understand your greatness, they will be affected social comparison less and able to distress quicker. Loving yourself won't make you perfect or invincible, but it will help each of you deal with the many lessons of college. 

                                         

I'm not alone in this challenge. Dress Barn's new sale is titled, "Me, my Valentine" with the hashtag #labelmeconfident and Buzzfeed has outlined a 12-day love yourself challenge. 

Here are some ways to celebrate you: 

• Create a list of all the things that you do well. 
• Don't be sorry for what you love. Love it and love it loud!
• Smile & laugh like you mean it.
• Surround yourself with people who'll remind you of who you are and how great you are. 
• Replace your negative go-to words with positives ones. 
• Write yourself a love letter. 
• Pamper yourself. 
• Call a friend when times get tough. 
• Do something that makes you happy. 
• Don't compared yourself to others. 
• Take a break from technology. 
• Create a reward/punishment system when you are mean to yourself. 
• Wear something that makes you feel great inside & out. 
• Eat something wonderful & savor each bite. 
• Take time for yourself. 

Check out my Pinterest for more ideas. 

Accept the challenge and celebrate YOU this Valentine's day. 

Monday Motivation

Don't quit on yourself or your goals. Progress is progress
no matter how small. 

Make Time to Laugh

Life as a college student is full stress. Whether it be from the endless stacks of homework, long hours of work, drama with roommates or significant others, or trying to manage all aspects on our lives.

Stress is such a common thing among students and it can have short-term and long-term effects on our bodies. Instead of lecturing about stress and the dangers of stress; I'm going to help relieve some stress...through laughter.

Here are some videos & pictures that help me smile and laugh:

Studio C : Top Soccer Shootout Ever with Scott Sterling

SNL : Star Wars Undercover Boss

Lip Sync Battle : Tatum Take-Over 

Hannah and Carli : Wherefore Art Thou, Zefron

Dustin & Geneviere : Adele Hello Parody 

BuzzFeed : If Guy Best Friends Acted Like Girl Best Friends

What makes you laugh? Comment Below! 

Monday Motivation

Progress is a personal victory; be proud of yourself. 

Beauty Sleep

Sleep seems to be a mythical concept for college students. Students may fill their time with work, late night homework sessions, Netflix marathons, parties, or participating in school events.  There are number of things calling our attention and time; social life, good grades, our health and even sleep.

Googling "college sleeping tips" will pull up missions of  results from quotes, infographics, Pins, articles, and research. With all that information condemning all-nighters, midnight McDonald's runs, or running off coffee it can be a little discouraging. But don't fret, you are not alone. We are all struggling with getting enough sleep. Me included.

College is full of opportunities for learning no matter the situation. Learning to deal with roommates, group assignments, how to cook semi-healthy, how not to gain or lose the freshman fifteen, how to manage your time, and and learning to get enough sleep.

Here's college tested tips on bettering your sleep:

Tips on Sleep

CampusMindWorks recommends a couple of tips to sleep better.

• Put down all technology 30 minutes before bed. 
• No caffeine after 3 pm. 

Cosmopolitan gives advice on beautifying your body while you sleep.

• Moisturize your face and lips every night. 
• Change and wash your pillowcases often. 
• Go to bed with a clean face. 

Inc.edu suggests some ways to get better zzz's. 

• Keep a journal by your bed to write down midnight thoughts. 
• Set sleep into your priorities. 

Ultralinx points out simple changes that will better your sleep.

• Go to bed around the same time each night. 
• Use the bed only for sleep. 
• Keep the lights lowly lit in your bedroom. 

For more ideas, tips, and articles check out my Pinterest. 

Have any other sleeping tips? Comment Below! 

Disappointment Allows Growth

Southern Utah University's Greek community conducted their semi-annual Rush Week this week, January 11-15, 2016.

There are four active Greek organizations; Alpha Phi (sorority), Delta Psi Omega (sorority), Sigma Chi (fraternity), and Chi Phi (fraternity). SUU's Greek life allows students various leadership opportunities, service in their communities, fundraising for charities, and belonging to something bigger than themselves.

Sorority Ever After defines 'rush week' is a process of open and invited events for potential new members and the organization to  mutually select new members.

For the first half of this week I had the opportunity to rush Alpha Phi. I learned a lot about myself, the members of Alpha Phi and what Alpha Phi stands for as an international Greek organization.

• There is no need to compare myself with others. We each are beautiful, quirky, and shouldn't be ashamed to show that to others. 
• Being part of a sorority is more than a being in the social upper-class. It is a opportunity for personal growth, the building of skills, and bettering the community. 
• Every sister in Alpha Phi is kind, unique, and an example of their six values. 
• A sorority can become a home away from home and provide individuals with the support and encouragement they need during college.
• Potential members can be influenced by the sorority's examples and values, even if they don't get to join that rush week. 

Unfortunately, I won't get the opportunity to join Alpha Phi this semester because I was not invited to their Thursday evening activity. Alpha Phi's directors were respectful and kind when informing me and the Alpha Phi sisters were still kind and friendly to me while in passing. But I was still disappointed.

The waves of disappointment crashed various times during the day, a lot harder than I anticipated. Subconsciously I had grown more fond of the idea of being part of Alpha Phi, having that large support group, and expanding my experiences in leadership and service.

Tiny Buddha author, Raeeka writes how disappointment can be one of the most "uncomfortable feelings" and some 4 Steps to Deal with Disappointment.

• Let it out -- Don't bottle up your confusing emotions because what you are feeling is okay. You are allowed to experience those emotions. 
• Get some perspective -- Give the situation time to relax without pushing yourself. 
• Know your heart -- Don't forget about your values and make the choice on how you'll react. You have the power to over disappointment. 
• Practice Acceptance -- Understand that life will always have disappointments while still noticing the good things in life. 

As for me, the waves of disappointment will probably continue to crash for the remainder of the week and into next week. I will allow myself to be disappointed, to be hurt, to grieve, and to cry. Then I will allow myself to be happy, to be kind, and to try again.

The opportunity to rush Alpha Phi helped me acknowledge my confidence within, embrace the uniqueness of me, meet sweet people, and support the expression of my values in my daily actions. So while I will be sad, it will still be a great day.