There are several reasons students choose to attend different colleges. I am positive that for many students on SDSU’s campus, the location was one of its many advantages written on the pros-and-cons list.
San Diego is one of America’s major cities, known for its great year-round weather, amazing beaches, surfing and more. This is why it is so important to remember that while things on campus can get overwhelming, it is vital to stay connected to your local community.
It is no secret that college life can be overwhelming. It’s not just classes: friends, roommates, employment, internships and clubs can all get to be too much on top of your daily experience in class.
College life, for most, is a completely new experience that demands more work, more socialization, more self-regulation, more, more, more. College students commonly experience burnout, which can significantly affect their academic performance and mental health.
Many students experience burnout, especially during midterms, final exams or deep into the slump of the semester that somehow always steals students’ joy and happiness.
As someone who struggled with burnout last year, I found that branching out beyond campus is so important. It is one of the best ways to remind myself that when it feels like the world is going to end on campus, San Diego is always there. While it may seem corny, getting involved in your college town can enrich your social and cultural experiences.
One thing that I found in San Diego was the weekly Ocean Beach Farmers Market. I love this farmers’ market to shop, eat good food, hang out by the beach and enjoy the culture of Ocean Beach with my friends.
Another easy way to branch out is by visiting local coffee shops. I love grabbing coffee in Pacific Beach from Java Earth Coffee or Kono’s Cafe while doing homework or walking on the beach. While they are a little bit of a drive from campus, they’re great options to be near the water.
Taking local hikes such as Annie’s Slot Canyon, Torrey Pines and Cowles Mountain is also a great way I like to get away from campus. Hiking with my friends has always provided me with a nice nature break and reminds me to appreciate the beautiful areas of San Diego.
San Diego is a great place to live and go to school, and it is important to take advantage of it while we live here. This may seem daunting, but a change of scenery is beneficial for the mind, body and soul.
Realistically, I understand that getting off campus cannot always be accessible. Students may lack transportation, be too swamped with schoolwork to get away or simply not have the time. However, setting aside time for yourself and getting off campus can help make these challenges feel a little bit more manageable sometimes.
If you do not have access to private transportation, there are several ways to take the bus or trolley to the beach and other locations at discounted prices using the SDSU student pass.
While you are slumped with to-do lists, Canvas assignments, exploding group chats and messy roommates, it is important to remember why you are here. Enjoy your environment and don’t take it for granted.