Inevitably over the course of my 18 years, I have been asked several times during different icebreaker activities the dreaded question: “What would you bring if you were stranded on a deserted island?” The obvious answers would be food, water, flare gun, etc., as these items are necessities for survival.

These answers are also the easy way out of a very important and relevant question. No one wants to end up like Tom Hanks’ character from “Cast Away,” with a volleyball as their only companion and no entertainment for an indefinite amount of time. So, my packing list must be full of items to keep me sane during my hiatus from modern society. If I were to be dropped in a deserted island in 24 hours with no notice I would be quickly packing my suitcase with these items in no particular order of importance:

– Sunglasses   

Since it’s pretty sunny on a deserted island, I would want to relax in the sun without worrying about developing ocular melanoma. Sunglasses serve a dual purpose: preventative eye care and also a cute fashion statement. My go-to would be the big mom-style sunglasses over the tiny sunglasses – which wouldn’t do much in terms of protection.

– Air Mattress

Given that I won’t have a bed to sleep in on a deserted island, this is a great alternative to sleeping on the sand, which would be uncomfortable. Since good sleep is a necessity, and I won’t have much else to do on the island, this is an important item. To go along with the mattress I would have to also pack a blanket and pillow. A good night’s sleep is important after a long day on my deserted island. 

– Deck of cards

Even though I’m the only one on the island, a deck of cards would still give me entertainment. With my extra time, I could brush up on my Solitaire skills or even try to create some new games if I’m feeling extra creative. I could even finally learn how to shuffle a deck of cards.

– My best friend

Even though a deserted island might be a nice getaway, I know I’ll get bored and need some company. This is a little more difficult since I would have to go through the extra work of trying to convince my best friend to join me on a deserted island. Also, this could be a major drain on resources, which is a downside. Bringing my friend would be much better company than relying on a volleyball for emotional support.

– Matches

This is a practical item. I’ll need to start fires to cook my food, keep warm and even maybe light a candle. Since I don’t know how to light a lighter or rub sticks together to start a fire, this is the best option. Matches would also give me the chance to learn how to breathe fire – something that has always been on my bucket list.

– Hammock

Even though I’m not sure what kind of terrain my island will have, there’s a strong chance that there will at least be a couple of trees, so a hammock would be convenient to have. It would be great for chilling in the sun during the day and for naps.

– An iPod shuffle with earbuds

I chose an iPod shuffle rather than a smartphone or other type of device for music because the battery life is unbeatable. Even though I wouldn’t have service to download music, I could just relisten to my old music until my iPod shuffle inevitably dies since I won’t have any way to charge it. Even though iPod shuffles aren’t the most technologically advanced, I’d be able to at least get a couple of hours of music from it.

– Reading material

Since I would have plenty of free time, I would want to bring lots of reading material to keep my mind active and occupied. I’ve only read about a quarter of my collection of Tennis magazines, and I could use my time to catch up on my reading. I would probably pack my textbooks, too. That way I can still continue learning, even if I’m stuck on an island.

– Notebook with a writing instrument

Since I’m going to have lots of time to contemplate life, a notebook will be handy to write down my thoughts and ideas. I could even write a memoir about my time on the island or take up poetry.

– My Britta filter

It’s debatable, but drinkable water might be kind of important. A Britta is a dorm essential as well as a deserted island essential. Since the ocean water is a health hazard, I can filter my water safely with my Britta and stay hydrated.

College can seem daunting, but it is also filled with some of the best years of your life. You receive the opportunity to grow, learn and discover who you are as an individual and form connections and friendships that can last a lifetime. Below is a set of my top tips on how to thrive at Jewell your first year.

Effort = Success 

Here at Jewell, classes can seem impossible at times. Jewell will challenge you mentally and push you to expand your knowledge and thinking in ways you never thought possible. I encourage you to never give up because even if something may not be your strength, hard work and effort will always earn you recognition from your peers and professors. Listen and learn as much as you can because Jewell does help shape you as a critical thinker, and in life that will set you apart from the rest.

Keep your eye on the prize

It is easy to become distracted at college by social activities, sports and extracurricular activities. However, keeping your goals clearly outlined each day and week will help you stay organized and keep you on the right track. I find that keeping a planner or a large calendar on hand helps me prioritize my day and keep myself accountable.

Know when to ask for help

Sometimes life can hit you all at once, and it’s important to be able to identify when you’re struggling and ask for help. There are a multitude of resources at Jewell that can help you in various areas that you may be academically or emotionally challenged. Jewell has tutors and academic advising that can help get you back on track. However, your professors are the best resources, and it’s important to let them know if you’re struggling or need help in specific areas of study. Jewell also has counseling services if you need help with your emotions or mental health.

Always make time for self-care

 It is important to always put not only your health, but your mental health as a priority. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in college, especially if you are overcoming homesickness. I enjoyed making a journal in order to keep my life in perspective. It can also help to do things that bring you joy or comfort.

Meet people in different social groups

At Jewell, it’s easy to interact only with people in your social group or sports team. However, I have made some of my closest friends by interacting with others that weren’t in my social circle. It’s important to diversify your social interactions – you may discover things in common with others that you wouldn’t normally.

Take time to enjoy your college experience 

College moves quickly, and as I reflect on my time Jewell as a senior, I wish that I would have pushed myself to become more involved in life at Jewell. I encourage you to go to sporting events, join a club or take a class that challenges you. Your experience at Jewell is what you make of it, so lean in and enjoy your time. I wish that I hadn’t spent so much time worrying about every detail of my life. Being in healthcare, I have seen life, death, tragedy and miracles, so if you are to take any of my advice it would be to slow down and enjoy the journey.