The end of winter break is quickly approaching. After such a long break, the transition back into our studies welcomes new stress and exhaustion. Taking these last few days to prepare for the spring semester can dilute the stresses of classes resuming. So, below are 10 tips to help prepare you for a new and successful semester.
1. Buy Your Textbooks – This may seem obvious, but it is a small detail in the grand scheme of preparation. It is difficult to have a strong start to the semester if you have not purchased the necessary books. So, be sure to order your textbooks before the first day of class.
2. Practice Your Route – If your classes are in unfamiliar territory, take a day to head to campus and map it out. Mapping out your route will build your confidence and eliminate your chances of entering the wrong classroom on the first day, which no one enjoys.
3. Create a Schedule – Grab a planner and create a daily schedule for schoolwork, fun time and any other responsibilities. Creating a designated time for each task can help reduce stress and give you the confidence that getting everything done is possible.
4. Set Goals – It may seem cliché but setting goals for the upcoming semester can redirect your mind towards success. Setting these goals will keep you focused when the semester gets tough and the joy of meeting these goals will keep motivation high.
5. Clean and Organize Your Space – The floor does not need to shine, and the appliances do not need to sparkle for this tip to be helpful. Simply picking up and avoiding clutter will keep your mind focused and motivated.
Related article: Welcome Week – The Resources to Help You Succeed This Semester
6. Focus on Mental and Physical Health – This can mean anything from exercising and eating a healthy meal to sitting and doing nothing. Doing something that makes your mind and body flourish will give you extra strength to push towards the finish line.
7. Do Something You Enjoy – The responsibilities of class can take up so much time that you do not always have time to do the things you enjoy most. So, before we all get back to work, make sure to do something that will bring you joy like watching a movie, crocheting or playing a new video game.
8. Tie Up All Loose Ends – Make sure you have taken care of everything before the new semester. Need a new laptop? Now is the time. Need to get your oil changed? Now is the time. Important tasks such as these get pushed to the side once classes begin, so get everything done now to avoid the stress of it once things get busier.
9. Start a Sleeping Schedule – This is your reminder to start your sleeping schedule back up so that you are not tossing and turning the night before semester starts. Start going to bed earlier and waking up earlier, attempting to get at least 8 hours every night. Not only will your body celebrate for the extra rest, but it will also be prepared to wake up early again.
10. Engage Your Creative Side – It may not seem helpful for everyone to use the creative part of their brain but engaging your creative side can enhance the way you think in all aspects. Painting, writing or even reading can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
It is always difficult to adjust from weeks of relaxation to a packed schedule. Preparing for the new semester can smoothen the transition, though. Not all these tips will be helpful to everyone, but they serve as a reminder to everyone. The adjustment may be hard, but it is possible to prepare for and have a successful semester.
Marissa Collier
Reporter