Morning Routine Tips for BYU-I Women Living in Shared Housing

Jenn Handy • June 16, 2025

Living in shared women's housing at BYU-Idaho can be fun, but also hectic. Even if you’re living your best life as a college student, learning how to navigate sharing a space with others can take time.


Fortunately, a solid morning routine can help you feel less rushed while being mindful of those around you. Developing and sticking to a plan can help you prepare for the day ahead. Starting your day off on the right foot can make everything else feel so much easier. Here are our best tips for establishing a morning routine while living in shared student housing at NorthPoint.


Rise and Shine…Quietly

Start by waking up quietly. Disturbing others every morning is a good way to stir up conflict in a shared apartment, and that’s something you want to prevent if possible.


We recommend using a vibrating alarm or a smartwatch to get you up in the morning. These are more discreet than conventional alternatives, leveraging the power of touch to rouse you from your sleep.


When you wake up, keep the lights dim so you don’t wake your roommate, who might want to continue sleeping. Turning on an unnecessarily bright light could wake them up before they’re ready and prevent them from getting back to sleep.


As you move around, keep noise to a minimum. Be mindful of playing loud music and using hair dryers. If possible, use headphones and wash/dry your hair the night before so it’s ready to go when you wake up.


Streamline Your Bathroom Time

It’s helpful to have your shower caddy ready to grab and go. Gathering everything you’ll need beforehand allows you to use the bathroom in a single visit, so no one is waiting too long.


Your caddy should have the following essentials: 


  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Facial cleanser
  • Soap or body wash
  • Shaving foam and razors


Each of our shared apartments includes several vanities where you can keep your other important grooming items, such as:


  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Skincare products and lotion
  • Hair styling products
  • Makeup


We recommend developing a general shower schedule with your roommates when living in BYU-I student housing. Coordinating your schedules reduces the risk of any overlap, which could make one or more of you late.


Prep the Night Before

Prepping the night before saves you time and helps ensure you have everything you need for the day. For example, you can lay out clothes for the following day, pack your bag, and prepare any snacks you’ll take to campus.


Less scrambling in the morning means you can start your day with a sense of calm. You don’t have the morning rush weighing you down or causing you undue stress and anxiety.


Taking a thoughtful, night-before approach can help ensure you don’t forget anything important. Evenings usually offer more time to plan ahead, so you can gather what you need for the next day on campus without feeling rushed. You’ll also have a clearer head to pick out your outfit and any accessories you want to wear.


Keep Breakfast Simple

When it comes to breakfast in the mornings at BYU-I, we recommend keeping it quick and easy. You don’t want to spend too much time cooking and cleaning if you have class, work, or studying on your agenda.


Here are some realistic, easy-to-make breakfast ideas for busy college mornings:


  • Egg and cheese breakfast sandwich (use a microwave or small skillet with an English muffin or toast)
  • Peanut butter banana toast
  • Greek yogurt with granola and berries
  • Microwave scrambled eggs in a mug
  • Overnight oats (prep the night before with milk, oats, and toppings like cinnamon or raisins)
  • Frozen breakfast burrito (easy to reheat and eat on the go)
  • Bagel with cream cheese, jam, or peanut butter
  • Fruit smoothie with protein powder or nut butter
  • Cereal or granola with milk or a milk alternative
  • Toaster waffles with sliced fruit and a drizzle of syrup or nut butter


Try not to skip breakfast as you run out the door. Eating something in the morning can help you stay focused until lunch, prevent mid-morning energy crashes, and reduce random snacking later. Even just grabbing a granola bar and a banana is better than nothing, and your brain will thank you for it.


Include a Centering Habit

Many women at BYU-I find it helpful to include a centering habit in their morning routine—something simple that helps calm the mind before the day begins.


Here are a few ideas:


  • Prayer
  • Scripture reading
  • Journaling
  • A quick walk in the fresh morning air


Taking just a few minutes for one of these practices can set a more peaceful tone for the day ahead. Even when school feels overwhelming, starting your morning with intention can make it easier to ease into studying and stay grounded throughout the day.


Be a Considerate Roommate

Finally, it helps to be a considerate roommate when living in close proximity to other people. Being a good sport and doing your fair share helps everyone get along. 


Start by tidying your space as you go. Wipe down counters, wash your dishes right after eating, and avoid leaving personal items in common spaces.


Keep your own room tidy and commit to at least one shared chore, like vacuuming or taking out the trash. Small habits like these go a long way in creating a respectful living environment. When everyone pitches in, it’s easier for the whole apartment to feel like home.


Making Mornings Easier in BYU-I Women’s Housing

Your morning routine as a college student doesn’t need to be perfect. What matters most is finding what works for you. Choose habits that feel realistic and sustainable, especially during the busier parts of the semester, like midterms or finals.


By putting a few of these ideas into practice, you’ll likely find your mornings become more manageable and your whole day runs more smoothly. With a consistent routine, you’ll have more energy and focus for what matters most—your studies and working toward your goals.


Looking for a supportive place to live while attending BYU-I? Contact NorthPoint for women’s housing to inquire about our availability, or apply online today!

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