Gargle with salt water to help reduce swelling in your throat. Get plenty of rest to allow your body time to recover. Smoking will irritate your nasal passages. Self-medicate with antibiotics. Antibiotics combat bacterial infections.
Colds are viral infections.
Taking antibiotics is a waste of money, and exposes you to unnecessary side-effects. Most cold remedies can be purchased under their generic names, which will cost less, at the College bookstore and the local pharmacy.