Boston University

12/11/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 12/12/2024 03:26

Beat the Fatigue: Proven Sleep Tips for Students by a Fellow Student

Beat the Fatigue: Proven Sleep Tips for Students by a Fellow Student

Student Voices

Beat the Fatigue: Proven Sleep Tips for Students by a Fellow Student

A Boston University Student's Guide to Getting Quality Sleep

December 11, 2024
0
Twitter Facebook

As a pre-med student, sleep has ironically become one of the most fascinating topics to me-usually while I'm researching its benefits at 2 a.m. When I became a Student Health Ambassador, one of the resources we offered was sleep kits for students, a reminder of just how crucial rest is for well-being.

But navigating sleep at college can still be tricky, so I wanted to answer some of the most common questions I've come across. Whether you're a chronic night owl or just trying to survive the semester, this guide is for you:

"What is the right amount of sleep for me?"

Figuring out your ideal sleep schedule in college can feel impossible, but it's worth the effort! On average, most people need 7-9 hours, though it varies by person. I found my sweet spot by setting a consistent weekly bedtime and letting my body wake up naturally (no alarms). For me, it's 7 hours. Any more or less, and I'm dragging through classes with brain fog.

Pay attention to how you feel-are you waking up refreshed or still dragging through your morning? Adjust your bedtime by 30-minute increments if needed until you hit the sweet spot where you don't need coffee to function. Another tip: notice if you feel sleepy at a certain time each night. That's your body telling you it's ready to rest.

"What's the best way to calm down before bed with all the hustle and bustle on Comm. Ave and the noise from my roommates?"

This one's tough, especially with the constant hustle of BU life. For me, creating a nighttime routine was key. Here's what works:

  • Dim the lights and avoid screens an hour before bed.
  • Try relaxing activities like journaling or reading.
  • Invest in noise-canceling headphones or download a white noise app-ocean sounds are my favorite!

If noise is still an issue, earplugs (also in the Student Health Services sleep kit) can help, or a white noise machine can be considered. Honestly, setting "quiet hours" with your roommate can make a huge difference. They'll appreciate it, too!

"Is pulling an all-nighter before an exam effective?"

Let me save you the trouble-pulling all-nighters will probably hurt your grade and your sanity. I learned this the hard way. Once, I stayed up all night cramming, and while I passed the exam, my week spiraled. I was behind in every class and felt like a walking zombie.

Here's why all-nighters are a no-go:

  • Cognitive Impairment: Sleep consolidates memory. No sleep = hard to focus, harder to remember info.
  • Productivity Drops: Staying awake longer doesn't mean you're learning better.
  • Emotional Toll: Sleep deprivation leads to anxiety and irritability-both exam killers.
  • Health Impacts: It weakens your immune system and leaves you burned out.

Instead of cramming, plan study sessions and prioritize rest. Trust me, being well-rested pays off in focus and performance.

"Exams are exhausting. Are there good spots on campus for a quick power nap?"

Absolutely! A power nap is a short, 10 to 30-minute sleep period that can help you feel awake and alert again. As a pre-med student juggling labs and classes, I've scoped out the best napping spots on campus. Here are my top three:

  1. Kilachand Hall, 9th Floor
    This space is open 24/7, has comfy couches, and offers breathtaking city views. Perfect for a quick recharge.
  2. Hojo Study Lounge (Warren Towers)
    With its panoramic views and proximity to Marciano Commons, this makes for a perfect rest spot during a busy finals week.
  3. Mugar Memorial Library, 3rd Floor
    The quietest floor of the library! The seating arrangements are semi-private, making it ideal for power naps.

Getting a good night's rest shouldn't just be a way to help pass your exams-it's about thriving mentally, physically, and emotionally. So next time you're tempted to pull an all-nighter or power through exhaustion, remember that taking care of your sleep is taking care of you.

Cheers to good sleep and best of luck on your exams, fellow Terriers!

Explore Related Topics:

  • Share this story
  • 0 Comments Add

Share

Beat the Fatigue: Proven Sleep Tips for Students by a Fellow Student

Copy URL: Copy

  • Kusum Aryal (Sargent'26)

    Kusum Aryal (Sargent'26) is a Student Health Ambassador at Boston University. Profile

Comments & Discussion

Boston University moderates comments to facilitate an informed, substantive, civil conversation. Abusive, profane, self-promotional, misleading, incoherent or off-topic comments will be rejected. Moderators are staffed during regular business hours (EST) and can only accept comments written in English. Statistics or facts must include a citation or a link to the citation.

Post a comment. Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked *

Comment* view guidelines
Name *
Email *
Submit Comment

Latest from BU Today