For those students who are living in an apartment and conducting summer research for the first time, maintaining a balanced life can be a new experience. Here are a few tips to make your survival easier:

1. 1.  Create a routine in the beginning of summer.

During the regular academic year, each day of the week can be different depending on the courses you are enrolled in. In full-time summer research, however, you can create a routine which you can follow every day. This could entail setting aside an hour each day for a workout because you are on a weight loss mission. Following a routine is excellent practice, as it provides structure and a sense of purpose, builds good habits, and also negates the need for willpower. By negating willpower, I mean that instead of waking up and thinking “should I go for a run today,” you think, “time for my daily run”.

2. Make your own meal plan.

By creating a meal plan, you can eat healthier foods as well as save money. You can cook something different every day. If you do not have the time to cook lunch and instead plan on eating out, try relatively healthier and cheaper options such as the soups or salads at Courtyard Café. Incorporate this meal plan into your routine, so that you feel more obliged to follow this plan and are less likely to impulsively eat outside.

3. Plan your research.

If you’re feeling motivated and productive, set some research goals and deadlines for the upcoming week. You should already know what the end goal of your research is, but the steps necessary to achieve that goal can sometimes be elusive. Hence spend some of your spare time pondering over your research. This will help you gain more control and decrease the likeliness of thoughts such as “I don’t know what I’m doing.”

4. Ask questions.

Although a cliché, it is true that research is all about asking questions. This is a skill that is useful in all aspects of life. Don’t understand how an interferometer works? Google it. Cannot find it online? Ask your peers or mentor. Train yourself to ask questions that don’t solely address the “What”, but also the “Why”.

I hope you find these tips helpful. Good luck, and have fun researching!