Signing up for an 8 a.m. class is seen as a taboo in college – unless you happen to be a morning person. Turning up on a Tuesday only to find yourself waking up for an 8 a.m. on a Wednesday is the worst. Here is a little guide to make to best of your 8 a.m. classes.

Know when you should wake up

Everybody is different in the morning whether you are a morning person or not. The first thing to do is figure out what time and routine works best for you.Can you wake up 20 minutes before your 8 a.m. or do you need anywhere between an hour or two to fully start off your day?
[quote]“There is no right or wrong morning routine; do whatever makes you comfortable,” Dr.Angella Anderson, a clinical psychologist said.[/quote]

Eat

We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. So many students skipping out on their morning meal can factor into the drosiness we feel.
“Eating food when you wake up can give the energy and boost needed for the day,” Anderson said. “Even if you wake up 20 minutes before class, grab a granola bar and coffee and eat on the walk to class.”

Drink something (non-alcoholic)

Coffee in the morning is the go to item for most students. Get a cup of joe…or five, whatever works for you.  Those of you who are not coffee drinkers don’t feel like you shouldn’t drink anything in the morning. Did you know that drinking water immediately upon waking up can have amazing therapeutic effects?

Comfortable clothing

Wear something simple and comfortable, perhaps workout clothes or if you are bold – your PJ’s.  Let’s face it, worrying about your appearance is time consuming. Instead use this time to get breakfast and start preparing for your day. The extra 30 minutes it takes to get ready can instead be used for extra sleeping time.

Getting sleepy

[quote]“I have an understanding when I see a student falling asleep in my morning class, but if it’s an everyday thing — you should just drop my class,” Dr. McMullen, a history professor said. [/quote] 
So to make sure that falling asleep is not an everyday thing here are some creative solutions from Dr. Anderson.

• Excuse yourself from class to go to the bathroom, walk around, or get some water
• Doodling, it helps you stay focus and concentrate
• Drink something, it can help you stay alert and refreshed

Fighting the struggle of an early morning class can be hard, but with these tips you can walk into class energized and with pride knowing that you are taming the beast known as 8 a.m. classes.