Life at Hope College

How to be Sick in College

This post is not about how to get sick in college. It’s not hard. Colds spread around campus as the wind blows. This is what to do when you get sick in college.

You do the math. Sore throats, runny noses, a dizzying and total lack of energy + 9-5 college classes + work + homework = a disaster.

Here’s what you should do when you get sick in college:

  1. Go to bed. Put down the books and pens and climb up that loft. It doesn’t matter if it’s 8:00 p.m. on a Friday night. Just go to bed.
  2. Take the medicine your mom or dad would’ve given you. Cough drops, Vitamin C, cold & flu relief, etc.
  3. Drink some tea. My favorite for colds and sore throats is lemon. Don’t underestimate the power of teas.
  4. If necessary, go to the Health Center. They’re on campus for your needs and to take care of you when a check-up is needed. They’re also giving out flu shots!
  5. Don’t you dare go to things. If you’re sick, promise yourself one thing: that you’ll say no to whatever type of invite you get. You’re sick, you can’t be out in the cold at an apple orchard or running through a corn maze. You’d just get sicker and be more miserable. Stick yourself to the futon, grab a snack, and watch some Netflix.
  6. Toast. This one might seem dumb, but I find when my throat is coated with all sorts of the wrong stuff, toast helps take it down. Trust me and have a slice of toast for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
  7. Water. Keep drinking water while you’re sick to keep your body hydrated and at least a little bit energized.

I hope you remember some of these things the next time you get sick, whether or not you’re in college. And please don’t underestimate toast and tea. They are honestly what gets me through being sick.

My tea bag told me to smile, even when I felt a million miles away from flashing a grin. So I did, red nose and all.

Brooke

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