While in college, I was actively involved in nightlife promotions and had the idea to start a service that would inform college students about events on and around campus, enhancing the overall social experience. My idea evolved into CollegeTonight.com, a social network that is open exclusively to college students. College Tonight differentiates itself from other social networks by encouraging students to find out what’s going on–then to turn off the computer and enjoy life in the “real world.”

College can be very hectic as you are juggling classes, exams, and a social life. Starting a business in the middle of all that can be extremely challenging. That said, here are 5 humble thoughts on how to manage college life while starting a business:

1. Organize, Categorize, Prioritize.

Developing a business in college is like taking several additional courses, ones that you’re actually interested in. It’s important to separate the different aspects of your life, making time for important non-business-related activities as well. Very few people are brilliant enough to compartmentalize their lives without physically writing things down. The best solutions are either to use a free interactive calendar online, like I do now, or to keep a physical planner with you, as I did throughout college.

2. Run Laps, Shower Often.

I’ve developed some of our best concepts while running around a track or taking a shower. Both of these are very mentally relaxing activities for me. Hot water on my head puts me into a pseudo-coma and running laps makes the stress zone of my brain concentrate on my imminent shin splints. This opens my mind up for potential innovation.

3. Don’t Sleep Too Much.

Sleep is the cousin of death and there’s plenty of time for that later in life. Stay on the grind–you get an edge when the rest of the country is sleeping. I learned while running cross-country in high school that the “uphill” is usually the best place to pass someone in a race. While everyone is increasingly physically exhausted, most people assume that everyone is going to slow their pace because of the necessary additional exertion running up a hill. I would always increase my speed dramatically while running uphill–that was my edge. Nighttime offers a similar advantage. Seize it.

4. Network.

College is arguably more important for the relationships you’ll build than for the academic lessons you’ll learn. A hand unshaken is an opportunity lost. There are countless occasions since college where I’ve run into friends of friends that have helped me along my path. The world is truly a very small place, for better or worse. Be kind to everyone–you never know how and where someone is going to end up.

5. Think In Light-Years, Work in Days.

Always think about the future of your business, but maintain the integrity and efficacy of your current affairs. It’s a difficult task, but a necessary one. It’s essential to be continuously innovating, while continuing to operate smoothly in the present. The perfect balance is nearly impossible, but doing this well is the sign of a seasoned business person–it’s something I strive to achieve.

College is the opportune time to build new relationships, refine your interests, and have an exciting social life. But with the right motivation and organization, it can also be a great time to start a business.