You've made that dreaded mistake: signing up for a 9 a.m. class. Maybe you're a freshman who naively assumed this would be no different than your 7:45 homeroom. Or you might be a senior taking that last required seminar. Either way, it sucks, and it probably seems like there is no way you'll ever make it to DRL at such an ungodly hour. Lucky for you, we've got an arsenal of tips to get you through the crack-of-dawn classes - and don't worry, cutting back on partying the night before isn't one of them.
MIRACLE ELIXIR
First of all, head straight to the nearest coffee house on your way to class and order the most caffeinated drink possible. We'd like to suggest anything with ample espresso in it to super-charge the morning. Nothing counters a Copa Wednesday like knocking back a Starbucks Double Shot. Pack an extra one for class if you're running on less than four hours of sleep.
If you feel like sacrificing flavor for impact, throw back a five-hour energy shot. We've been told that it tastes like raspberry-flavored piss, but it will allow you to make it through that unbearable Calc recitation. Redbull (sans vodka) is also always an option.
Try to drink your caffeinated substance of choice 10-15 minutes before class so it kicks in when it counts, and drink steadily after for the best results. Be warned that consuming a ton at once will likely cause you to crash right after class.
Caffeine and chemicals not what you had in mind? Stash a bottle of water in the freezer before heading out at night. Begin to defrost it in the morning as soon as you get up so that some of it has melted by the time you have class. As it continues to melt, you can sip on the ice water throughout class and the cold will help keep you awake.
Splashing some ice water on your face in the morning isn't a bad idea either.
IT TASTES SO GOOD WHEN IT HITS YOUR LIPS
Eat a light bite at night, preferably on the early side, so you have time to digest. That means pizza at Allegro's circa 4 a.m. is a bad call (although probably not the worst decision you'll make on a Thursday night).
In the morning, avoid greasy food. Keep it simple: fruit, yogurt, cold cereal, oatmeal or plain eggs should keep your focus (and blood sugar) from plummeting. Taking a multivitamin in the morning can help.
WORK IT OUT
You don't have to schlep to Pottruck, but if you can muster the energy, stretch, jog in place or do some jumping jacks. We also suggest investing in a jump rope. Moving around will help shake you from sleep. Try not to puke or break any bottles.
BYO LAPTOP
Have your computer in class - whether you use it to actually type class notes, to finish up undone work for other classes or to Facebook stalk. It staves off boredom and should prevent snoozing.
DRESS TO IMPRESS
Going to class in flannel pajamas is tempting, but you'll doze off the second you sit down. Wear clothes that keep you cooler - being cold will force you to stay awake - and actually get dressed. Sweatpants do not count.
Pack a hoodie and sunglasses, and if all else fails just hood up and slink down. Try not to snore. Or drool.
