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Getting quality sleep in college is a critical part of success for academically and emotionally. College is an entirely new challenge for most students, since many will be spending their first significant amount of time away from their familiar surroundings of home—much less the additional academic demands and pressure. Quality sleep improves your productivity, your energy level and your mood—so getting a few extra hours of great sleep could have a major positive impact on yours or your child's college experience. Check out these 5 easy ways to get better sleep in college.

General sleep advice is common knowledge for most: no screen time for about an hour before you want to fall asleep. Limit caffeine and skip alcohol right before bedtime. Add to that – put up the books and homework and give yourself at least 30 minutes to relax before bed.

And, they may become a necessity in your life. If you’re sharing your space with one or more roommates, you probably can’t get them to follow your schedule or even respect your need for dark and quiet. Bring a sleep mask and earplugs with you – and use them.

Decide on a schedule that works for you. Maybe, it’s asleep at midnight and up at 7 or 8am for a night owl or asleep at 10 and up at 5 or 6 for a morning person. Now, follow that schedule. It’s very tempting to sleep in on the morning you have a late class or on the weekends. Don’t do it. It will make it harder for you to establish a good sleep routine.

Exercise right before bed doesn’t help you sleep and may keep you awake. Exercise earlier in the day and it’s a healthy plus.

If you’re in a dorm or an apartment, you may find that the bed is older than you are and a little less comfortable than sleeping on the floor. Don’t let a bad mattress ruin your good night’s rest. Fix it. Try a mattress topper or replace it.

Restful sleep really does contribute to your wellbeing and your success. It’s tough to be the one that goes to bed if your roommates are cramming for that big test or having fun, but realize how important it is to get your ZZZs.