Preparing for the First-Year College Cold
Starting your first year of college is an exciting time filled with new experiences and people! However, it often comes with an unwanted guest: the first-year cold. Living in a college dorm means living in close quarters and sharing spaces with many other students, making it easier for germs to spread. So, it’s important to be prepared for the common first-year college cold—know what to expect and the dorm essentials needed to fight it. Here’s how to combat illness and stay healthy during your first year of college:
Stock up on Dorm Essentials
Having the right supplies in your dorm room will ensure you’re ready to fight back against that pesky first-year college cold! Consider stocking up on these must-have items:
Tissues: Keep some extra boxes handy to avoid unwanted grocery store trips while recovering.
Hand Sanitizer: Using hand sanitizer every time you enter your dorm room will help you avoid spreading outside germs to your personal belongings.
Disinfectant: Whether it’s with wipes or spray, regularly disinfecting your dorm room surfaces will prevent germs from invading your space. Always remember to clean commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs and light switches!
Thermometer: If you start to feel feverish while dealing with the first-year cold, it’s important to have a thermometer on hand to monitor your temperature and determine if you require professional medical attention.
Over-the-counter medications: Be sure to have your preferred cold medications, pain relievers, and cough drops ready when the first-year cold symptoms flare up.
Adding these essential items to your packing list for your dorm room is easier than ever with the The Dorm List mobile app! Download today to be sure you have everything you need for your first year of college and these must-haves to beat the first-year college cold.
Boost Your Immunity
Being a first-year college student can get exhausting at times, but it’s important to always take care of yourself and build a strong immune system. With a healthy body and mind, the first-year college cold will be no match for you! Here are some tips for maintaining a strong immune system:
Balance your diet: We at The Dorm List know it can be challenging to have a balanced diet while living in a college dorm. Make the most of what your college meal plan has to offer! Try to incorporate a mix of fruits, vegetables, and proteins into your daily meals.
Stay hydrated: Add a reusable water bottle to your dorm packing list to ensure hydration all day, wherever you are!
Get enough sleep: Your first year of college will likely be filled with many late nights of homework and studying. However, you should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to keep yourself feeling rested and refreshed!
Exercise regularly: Physical activity keeps your body and mind healthy and strong! Try visiting your college’s recreational facilities or taking regular strolls around campus.
Practice good hygiene: Washing your hands, cleaning your dorm room routinely, and avoiding sharing your personal items can significantly reduce your risk of catching the first-year college cold.
Know When to Seek Help
If you are experiencing first-year cold symptoms for more than ten days or high fevers that won’t go down with medication, seek professional medical help. Get familiar with your college’s health resources early in your first year to ensure you know where to go when help is needed.
More From The Dorm List
Looking for more tips on navigating life as a first-year college student? Check out more advice from The Dorm List! And, check out The Dorm List Mobile App! Get the annual subscription or try the freemium version to get started. www.thedormlist.com
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