Between classes, activities, and football games on the weekends, it is so easy to get wrapped up in your responsibilities that you forget the number one thing to take care of: yourself! Moving to a college campus will really put your immune system to the test. Here are some tips and things to consider so that you make it through your freshman year alive, literally!

1. Sleep. This might be the one thing most students are deprived of. It’s really important to get the right amount of sleep each night so that you can be as productive as possible when you’re awake. Not only does being tired affect your ability to focus, it makes getting through your day that much more difficult when you move in slow motion. There’s a lot to keep up with at Penn State so being well rested is the key to taking advantage of everything PSU has to offer. (And no, replacing sleep with caffeine is NOT a good solution for the sleep-deprived. Caffeine will only make you crash once it wears off.)
2. Eating right. There are plenty of healthy options in the dining commons and downtown. It’s up to you to make the right choices. Penn State Food Services posts daily menus for all of the dining commons and nutritional information. (Check it out here http://menu.hfs.psu.edu )
3. Exercise. Penn State has club and intramural sports throughout the year, which is great way to stay in shape and meet new people! Although team schedules are not always compatible with your schedule, in which case you can purchase a PSU fitness membership. A membership gives you access to the work out facilities at Rec Hall, the White Building, the Natatorium, and the IM Building (which is being renovated!) Weights, cardio machines, and fitness classes are available. You can even schedule meetings with a student trainer to set goals and come up with a work out plan. Definitely make time to hit the gym a few times a week, a good workout will make you feel better and is a great way to relieve stress.  For more information about fitness programs and memberships check out this website: http://www.athletics.psu.edu/fitness/index.html
4. Hand Sanitizer. Thousands of people walk through the same doors and sit in the same seats as you everyday at Penn State. Carrying hand sanitizer is great idea because you’re exposed to so many germs on door handles, computer keyboards, and desks all the time.
5. CAPS. Penn State University Health Services offers CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services.) Making the transition from high school to college can be really overwhelming and stressful. Meeting with someone at CAPS is a great way to talk through your feelings and relieve some of the stress you might be experiencing. There are so many resources at UHS so definitely take advantage of them if you need to! Find out more here: http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/counseling/
6. On-Campus Attention. If you ever do need to see a doctor, you can schedule an appointment at UHS. There is also an advice nurse on call 24/7 if you’re not sure what to do. You can schedule an appointment here: http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/health/
7. Flu Shot. Get the flu shot! Like I mentioned earlier, you’re exposed to so many germs your body can’t possibly fight them all. UHS offers the flu vaccine each year so all you have to do is schedule an appointment and go get it.

Nothing is worse than being sick at school; it might even make you a little homesick. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself and utilizing all of the services Penn State offers to stay healthy!