Starting a new semester of classes can be stressful, and here are my top five tips to try to make the transition smoother!
1. Giving yourself time to figure out your new course load
Setting out more than enough time in my schedule to adjust to the new course load is always one of my main priorities. Not knowing how much time you need to block out for your assignments can be stressful, which is why I always give myself plenty of time at the beginning of the semester to figure out how to balance the new course load for my upcoming classes.
2. Read Your Syllabus
Reading your syllabus at the beginning of the semester is important. It gives you all the due dates for the rest of the class and sets expectations from your professor. I like to write all of the due dates down in my planner in the beginning, so I won’t ever miss a due date.
3. Make a schedule for yourself
I find that I function so much better when I have a set routine. At the beginning of the semester, I try to plan when is a good time to do homework, when I should make dinner, etc. I think having a schedule, even if it’s just through the first weeks of class, can help make the start of the new semester much simpler.
4. Talk to someone new
I always try to make new friends during the first weeks of class! It can make the transitions between semesters seem much less lonely. It also is good to have connections in case you miss a day of class or you’re confused about the material later on.
5. Recognize your ACCOMPLISHMENTS
It’s so important to recognize all the work you’ve put into college so far! I like to reflect on what I did well in the previous semester and what I should work harder on in the future!