The guide to happy mugging

It’s the dreaded mid-term season at university now, where life is rife with project and essay deadlines. Still, there’s no reason why one shouldn’t experience comforting moments now and then. It is during such trying times of a student’s life when one better appreciates the little joys of life – like the friends who stay back to study with you and yummy treats to get you going.

Tip #1:

Share your woes with a loved one.

Takeaway tuna salad from Raffles Place – credits to my loving study buddy.

Home-cooked meal from mum! 

Mug strong but don’t mug alone. If you are having difficulties with an assignment, don’t be shy to ask for help and advice from friends and professors. You can even share things about your life in school with your parents! They may not fully comprehend your academic struggles but you can be sure they’ll be happy to show their care in some way, like slipping a bottle of chicken essence into your bag or surprising you with your favourite dish.

Tip #2:

Find an environment you enjoy studying in.

There’s nothing like studying on campus to really get you started on those assignments. At least you won’t be constantly tempted to laze around in bed at home.

 Enjoy those bustling, sunny mornings. You’re not alone in making your way to class for a long day of studying.

Café Hotshot at the NIE Library – one of my favourite mugging spots. It is usually quiet throughout the day, there are plugs for laptops and you can eat openly without attempting to hide your Hello Panda and Pocky biscuits when a librarian walks by. Plus, the café serves a mean iced chocolate and you get a lovely view of the tropical greenery if you sit by the windows. 

An essential: Lip balm. Being cooped up indoors studying all day can give one dry lips. 


Tip #3:

Ingest chocolate.

Studies have shown that eating chocolates releases endorphins in the brain, thus making us happy people. Go for dark chocolate (50% to 70% cocoa) if you fear overloading on calories.

A study buddy surprised me with a chocolate cupcake!

Indulged in dark chocolate ice-cream from Awfully Chocolate at Jurong Point after a long day on campus. Apparently, it contains at least 70% cocoa solids and less sugar than most ice-creams. Yum!

So the next time you are feeling down and out, try relaxing and eating a piece of chocolate for a bit.

Tip #4:

Comfort yourself with a hot beverage.

That’s what the Starbucks at the Student Activities Centre is for – to keep you warm in your hoodie on those rainy days. And there’s nothing like a good cup of coffee or green tea latte to perk you up for morning classes.

Comments? Email us at hey@ntu.edu.sg