As Ivy League students, you’re not just part of a prestigious academic community, you’re also trendsetters, innovators, and high achievers who balance rigorous academics with vibrant personal lives. To help you navigate the upcoming year, we’ve curated the 2025 Ins and Outs List. From academic hacks to lifestyle upgrades, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve this year.

Academic Life

At the heart of Ivy League tradition is a commitment to academic excellence. This year, rethinking study habits, pursuing meaningful internships, and integrating new tools will help you stay ahead while making your efforts count.

In:

• Curating a personal AI assistant: Streamline your study sessions with tools like ChatGPT or Notion AI, customized to your coursework.
• Multidisciplinary minors: Embrace cutting-edge fields like sustainability or data science to stand out in your academic journey.
• Immersive group study sessions: Transform study marathons into collaborative, energizing experiences at trendy campus cafés.
• Internships with impact: Seek roles at startups or organizations that align with your values and passions.

Out:

• Pulling all-nighters that wreck your health and focus.
• Overloading on electives that don’t align with your goals.
• Settling for generic research assistant roles with limited learning opportunities.
• Solely relying on lecture notes. Diversify your study methods!

Success in academics starts with smarter strategies. Use these insights to balance your workload and achieve your goals without burning out.

Lifestyle & Wellness

Balancing academic rigor with personal well-being is key to thriving in every area of your life. This year, wellness trends focus on mindful choices that energize your body, sharpen your focus, and help you stay balanced.

In:

• Cold plunges (or showers) and meditation challenges: Start your mornings with a clear mind and an energy boost.
• Protein-packed smoothies with adaptogens: Fuel your body with functional and flavorful nutrition.
• Smart wearables: Keep track of stress, sleep, and activity for a healthier lifestyle.
• Addressing mental health: Prioritize counseling, journaling, and gratitude practices to strengthen your mind.

Out:

• Over-caffeinating with energy drinks to push through deadlines.
• Skipping meals to save time. It’ll cost you energy and focus.
• Ignoring signs of burnout. Your health is your biggest asset.
• Overworking without taking time for balance and recovery.

Thriving at school starts with taking care of yourself. These wellness strategies will keep you performing at your peak all year.

Campus Style

Ivy League fashion is a mix of timeless tradition and modern functionality. This year’s trends prioritize sustainable choices, classic designs, and practical accessories that showcase your school pride while keeping you comfortable.

In:

• Minimalist, timeless collegiate apparel: Classic designs like Ivysport’s sweatshirts and tees never go out of style.
• Functional gear: Think tactical backpacks and noise-canceling headphones to stay prepared and productive.
• Sustainable fashion: Show your values with thrifted pieces or eco-conscious brands.
• Statement accessories: Bold glasses and practical footwear are the new campus essentials.

Out:

• Overly formal outfits that restrict movement.
• Heavy textbooks. Digital is the way to go.
• Fast fashion hauls that fade out as quickly as they arrive.
• Outdated tech accessories like wired headphones.

Classic style meets modern function. Elevate your campus wardrobe with pieces that reflect Ivy League sophistication.

Technology & Productivity

Staying organized and productive is easier than ever with the right tech tools and strategies. This year, focus on innovation and efficiency to study smarter, plan better, and achieve your goals.

In:

• AI tools for brainstorming: Apps like Notion AI and ChatGPT make studying and planning a breeze.
• Pomodoro techniques: Pair with ambient playlists for focused productivity.
• Digital planners: Keep your schedule in sync across all devices.
• E-ink tablets: Go distraction-free for notetaking and reading.

Out:

• Handwriting lecture notes in disorganized ways.
• Procrastinating on group projects until the last minute.
• Using clunky paper planners without backups.
• Multitasking with too many tabs open.

Embrace the tech that helps you do more with less effort, leaving room to focus on what really matters.

Entertainment & Pop Culture

Your downtime matters just as much as your studies. This year’s entertainment trends bring purpose and depth to how you unwind, helping you recharge and stay inspired.

In:

• Podcasts with purpose: Discuss space, philosophy, or niche topics that fuel your curiosity.
• Indie films and cult classics: Dive into creative storytelling and unique perspectives.
• Campus art showcases: Explore contemporary works or take part in creative events.
• Student life TikToks: Add an educational twist to your social media content.

Out:

• Scrolling Instagram and TikTok mindlessly for hours.
• Keeping up with every celebrity gossip trend.
• Overhyped Netflix shows with little depth.
• Revisiting outdated YouTube drama.

Turn your free time into an opportunity for growth and inspiration with purposeful entertainment.

Career Prep

Ivy League students are known for their ambition, and career prep is all about staying ahead. This year, focus on building your personal brand, forging connections, and developing skills that set you apart.

In:

• Building a personal website: Showcase your achievements and skills beyond a traditional résumé.
• Leveraging LinkedIn: Engage with peers, mentors, and recruiters by sharing thoughtful updates.
• Mentorship and coaching programs: Develop insights from those who’ve walked your path.
• Entrepreneurship: Start small passion projects that showcase your initiative.

Out:

• Generic résumés that don’t stand out.
• Job fairs without a clear strategy for follow-up.
• Applying to roles without tailoring your applications.
• Ignoring essential soft skills like emotional intelligence.

Your career path starts now! Take the steps that align with your ambitions and help you stand out.

The new year brings opportunities to refine your habits, explore new interests, and celebrate your unique journey. Whether it’s upgrading your study techniques, embracing wellness trends, or proudly representing your Ivy League heritage through timeless style, this 2025 Ins and Outs List is your guide to thriving in the year ahead.

Ready to make the most of it? Explore our Ivysport collections and carry your Ivy pride into every aspect of your life.