You know what man? University changes you.

I realize that’s stating the obvious, but after two rounds of midterms, case projects and a term paper, I am allowed to do that.

I’ve always considered myself someone who had it fairly together. But this last stressful month has made me realize that, nope, I don’t have it all together. Because, someone who was on top of things definitely wouldn’t start studying for their first math midterm the weekend before the exam.

I guess I was “lucky”; I only had three midterms this time around. But trying to juggle studying + other schoolwork + outside commitments made me realize just how important managing your mental health is, especially because it also affects your physical health. Noticing the onset of a Freshman Five was not a happy experience but it did wake me up a little to the reality that not exercising, all-nighters and constant anxiety will eventually catch up to you.

So lately, I’ve been trying to do positive things like starting homework earlier and taking the stairs (not just for the health benefits –I live on the sixth floor, this is serious business — but also because my house is totally going to win Aim to Sustain!). And yesterday, I finally felt like myself again. I’m not the old me, but I’d like to think that’s a good thing now.