Although the sun is still out shining and the weather is perfect for an afternoon at the Cottages pool, summer has officially come to an end. Unfortunately, we all need to come to the realization that it’s time to start focusing more on classes and less on dartying (for the freshman who may not be familiar with the term: darty = day party).

After all, we’re at OU to learn, right?  I’m all for O’Connel’s karaoke night, Bid Day parties, and laying out at the Cottages pool all weekend, but it’s important to keep in mind your larger goals as well, like getting a summer internship or a job offer after graduation. Starting off the fall semester on a positive note will guarantee you success throughout your college career. Even though this is definitely easier said than done, here are some tips that will help you sail smoothly through the fall semester:

1. Make lists of what you need to get done. Once your classes start, they’ll move pretty fast. Make lists of what you need to get done in the order of most important to least. Remember to take it day by day; write down what you need to get done that day instead of planning super far in the future. When you're done with the task, cross it out. Seeing the items on the list shrink will make you feel accomplished, no matter what.     

2. Keep a calendar or planner with you. It’s super important to write down all your due dates for homework, assignments, quizzes and exams. Truth be told, if you don’t write down a due date right when the professor announces it, you’ll most likely forget all about it. Write down when the assignment is due or when the exam is on the exact day and also a week before, so you’re aware that it’s coming up and you can prepare. Also, Lilly Pulitzer planners are like so srat, right?!   

3. Establish a relationship with your professors. Sure, professors are usually intimidating—especially when you’re in a large lecture class like most gen-ed classes. This may seem really unlikely, but professors truly want you to succeed. They’re great resources for virtually anything regarding the subject; I mean they are the ones teaching it, after all. Introduce yourself on the first day or shoot them an email asking a question. Basically, just show that you’re interested in the class. It’ll benefit you in the end if you have a borderline grade or need a recommendation for an internship.   

4. Learn how you study most effectively.  
If you're reading your notes over and over again and not retaining any information (like me), then maybe you're not solely a visual learner. Studying takes trial and error—try out new study techniques before your next exam or quiz. Also, take advantage of study groups; see how others prepare for exams and use their ideas. Even though it may take a while, there are so many ways to study that you're bound to find the perfect fit for you.      

5. Take productive study breaks. 
 Writing a 10 page paper or studying for a cumulative exam is something that’ll make you literally go insane if you don’t take little breaks in-between. That being said, it’s also important not to cram the night before or procrastinate until the last minute—Give yourself more than enough time to get your work done and take breaks periodically so you don’t lose your mind. If you take small breaks to clear your head, you’ll feel more motivated to study and stay focused.   

Don’t forget to keep these tips in mind during the first few weeks of the semester. Everything may seem overwhelming at first, but if you start off the semester with a positive attitude, it’s almost impossible to get behind in your classes. And remember, being motivated is the ultimately the key to success!