Being a college athlete means being different. It means having different experiences, more responsibility and being held to a higher standard.

Below we have listed our top tips in how to keep a balanced life as a student-athlete!

1. ALWAYS PLAN AHEAD.

Between practices, games, homework assignments, exams, social life, eating, sleeping and everything else, it’s important to plan and prioritize what needs to be done.

TOP TIP: To-do lists are the best when it comes to prioritizing assignments and due dates.

2. WRITE IT DOWN.

It’s not good enough to simply think about what needs to be done. It’s important to write it down to make sure that you know where and when you need to be places.

TOP TIP: Google Calendar is easy to use and especially fun for those who appreciate colour coordinating, but most importantly it keeps you on track.

3. MAKE FUEL A PRIORITY.

You woke up late, you’re rushing to your morning class and you don’t have time to eat. You go from class to class, working and studying, suddenly it is 3.p.m. and time for practice, but you haven’t eaten anything. Eating the right fuel and drinking enough water is IMPORTANT. You’re a college athlete pushing your body to the limits, you must support it.

TOP TIP: Always stock your bag with protein bars (or your favourite healthy snack) to save you on busy days.

4. GET YOUR Z' S.

As a college athlete, your days are filled from start to finish; they are all-together exhausting. You think that giving up sleep will help you accomplish all the things you need, but the truth is, that’s the worst idea. If you don’t get rest and treat your body right, it will all catch up to you and you’ll end up crashing.

TOP TIP: Choose sleep. It seems simple, but when Netflix, Twitter and Instagram are calling your name, evaluate your energy and prioritize sleep when you need it.

5. REMEMBER TO HAVE FUN.

You’re a collegiate athlete, you’ve worked your whole life to get to where you are. Enjoy it! It’s a time you’ll never get to live again, a time that many wish they had - don’t take it for granted.

Top Tip: Enjoy every minute!