Dear Class of 2028,
Welcome to Harvard! This will be quite an exciting year. Take it from two girls who just experienced it—in the end, you will look back and think, woah. But amidst brand-new friendships, rigorous coursework, varying degrees of nightlife, and intense seasonal changes, it can be challenging to find time to take care of yourself. Harvard students are busy like no other. So, we reflected and researched small wellness habits to make the transition to college healthier and happier for you.
Sleep. We know you’ve heard it enough from your parents, your doctors, and probably your professors. But we’re echoing them for a reason; they’re right. Getting 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep, as recommended for college students by Cornell Health, is as essential as diet and exercise to your overall health, mood, and performance. It may seem like a good idea to regularly forego sleep in favor of studying, but research has shown that students who sleep for nine or more hours per night have significantly higher average GPAs than those who get less than six hours. Sleeping also naturally relieves the stress we accumulate throughout the day. So, for the sake of your physical, mental, and academic well-being, don’t let yourself stay up too late.
Walk. Of course you’ll walk between your classes, dorm, and Annenberg. But we advise taking intentional walks, either as study breaks, during phone calls, or as a way to catch up with friends. Not only will you get to know campus better—it can’t hurt to check out all the upperclassmen Houses—but walking also has some serious benefits, including mood improvement, stress management, and a stronger immune system (which we all need during cold and flu season in communal living spaces).
Make Your Bed. A simple chore we’re all guilty of ignoring. When you make your bed in the morning, you begin your day with a sense of accomplishment—you’ve completed a task, and in doing so, set a productive and positive tone for the rest of your day. Making your bed seems small, but it can promote other productive behaviors and instill good habits. Additionally, a made-bed offers a calming, organized environment to your room. And if you’re still skeptical, take it from Naval Admiral William McRaven, who popularized this concept in his famous 2014 Commencement Speech at UT Austin and subsequently wrote “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World.”
Berg. Don’t skip out on Annenberg, or food in general, no matter how busy you get. As simple as it sounds, making sure to eat a balanced diet and all three meals goes a long way. Eating well ensures you have proper energy, thereby making you more productive and less stressed. Breakfast is particularly important, even if it means a bit of an earlier wakeup. Studies have shown breakfast improves your concentration abilities, particularly memory skills, and has numerous health benefits, including diminishing the risk of heart disease and improving weight management. And cherish having one beautiful dining hall for your entire class while you can.
Find Your Spot. Beyond the main libraries, Harvard’s beautiful campus is home to countless tucked-away study spots that are just as peaceful and productive, especially when you really need to lock in. Finding your spot, so to speak, can also be a source of comfort as you settle into your new home. In fact, having a designated space can mentally make you more focused and settled. The Law School Library, Barker Center, and Smith Center second floor are some of our favorites.
Slow Down. We know how easy it is to get swept away in the chaotic frenzy of academics, activities, extracurricular clubs, and events on campus—and, perhaps, even easier to succumb to such pressures. But truthfully, prioritizing yourself and your time can only better your college experience. While it can definitely feel exciting in the moment to throw yourself into a million things, don’t overcommit yourself or overfill your calendar—taking moments for yourself is the ultimate wellness habit. It’s more than okay to say no to going out or taking on a new commitment. Take a break whenever you need; college life is meant to be enjoyed!
Whether you do all of these things or just one, the more important takeaway is that your time in college is yours. Yes, you’re meant to challenge yourself in class, meet new friends, and enjoy all the opportunities Harvard has to offer, but you don’t need to compromise your well-being in order to get the fullest college experience. In fact, taking some time for yourself will only enhance your time here. Enjoy your freshman year, and stay well!
Meena Behringer ’27 (meenabehringer@college.harvard.edu) and Emmie Palfrey ’27 (epalfrey@college.harvard.edu) enjoy walks along the river and going to bed before 11:00.