One of the hardest challenges I face on a weekly basis are my 8:30 AM classes. Even though I try so hard to avoid them, it’s nearly impossible to go through university without at least one early morning class - and unfortunately, I got stuck with two. My mom always uses the saying “the early bird catches the worm;” but when it comes to morning classes, my success is measured by whether or not I actually make it to class.Here are some tips and tricks that I use to help get to and through the dreaded 8:30 class:The Overused Snooze ButtonGetting out of bed is always the toughest part. For those of you who have become best friends with your snooze button and press it as many times as possible to avoid the bleak reality of class, my advice to you would be to move your alarm from beside your bed. This forces you to actually get up to turn it off, whether you like it or not!Lifting Your SpiritsJust because you’re awake for class, doesn’t mean you’re happy to be out of bed. There’s no better way to put yourself in a good mood than with a little pick-me up, morning playlist as you get ready for the day. Listen to my go-to morning playlist here.Getting RefreshedA quick shower is the perfect thing to wake you up and make you feel refreshed. Your first thought is probably a nice hot shower, but cold showers are proven to be better for your health, energy levels and well-being. Basically, hot showers slow you down, so switch things up and give the cool shower a try!Dress For SuccessIf you’re one of those people who like to go to class in your comfiest clothes, this is for you. Putting on your coziest sweatpants might feel great at the time, but it could make you guilty of the post 8:30 class nap. Dressing for success will make you less likely to laze around for the rest of the day and helps you stay productive.Energy BoostA lot of people skip breakfast as they rush to get out the door, but your body needs energy to get through the day. Instead of grabbing a granola bar or piece of fruit and running to class, here are a few healthy breakfast options to give you that extra boost.Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Smoothie (makes two servings):1 cup soy milk1/2 cup rolled oats1 banana, broken into chunks14 frozen strawberries1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract1 1/2 teaspoons white sugarDirections: In a blender, combine soy milk, oats, banana and strawberries. Add vanilla and sugar if desired. Blend until smooth. Breakfast Egg Cups (make ahead of time and freeze):5 eggsSplash of milk1 (10z) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry2 chopped scallions1 cup shredded cheese of your choice (feta, goat, cheddar or mozzarella)Directions: Preheat the oven to 375F. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. Beat eggs with the splash of milk. Season with salt and pepper. Evenly distribute the spinach and scallions in each muffin cup. Next, pour the egg mixture on top – evenly distributing among the muffin cups. Sprinkle the cheese on top of each cup. Bake for about 20-23 minutes, or until the egg cups are well set and a tester/toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Serve immediately.To freeze: remove them from the muffin tin and let cool before individually wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer zip-lock bag. Lasts up to 1 month in the freezer.To reheat: remove the amount wanted from the freezer, take off the plastic wrap and place directly into the often/microwave until thawed and hot. Tea or Coffee: Pick Your PoisonCaffeine is a necessary part of 8:30 AM class survival for students. Whether it’s coffee or tea, your day hasn’t truly started without a mug in your hand. Instead of trying to drink your scolding hot drink before heading to campus, use a travel mug. There’s no better way to stay awake in class then to keep the caffeine coming until the end of that lecture. Rise and shine, MUSERS! Yours creatively,Erica Headley, Online Contributor Image: We Heart It