It's easy to wake up dreading another 16 weeks of papers, tests and projects. But it's also easy to find out the good in walking to an eight a.m. in ten degree weather! Sometimes, it's hard not to get into a bummed out state of mind after having three weeks off with family. So, it's time to find your peace and to know to make time for yourself during the dreary Indiana winters.

1. Start looking for summer internships.

It's school related, but the sooner you start looking into internships, the sooner you will be relieved and not scrambling during your senior year to get the requirement done! This is a great opportunity to find a job in another state, or even a study abroad trip!

2. Get into a new routine, and stick with it!

A new semester means a new schedule, so that means new routines to establish on your campus. Whether it be that afternoon cup of coffee or lunch with friends, take some time out of your schedule to unwind before your course-load picks up. I personally make it a point to sit at Starbucks, what's better than the smell of coffee and chocolate croissants?

3. Spend some of that Christmas money on something other than books.

I know whenever I have to buy books for the spring I spend my Christmas money 90 percent of the time. It sucks and is a total buzzkill to all of the clothes waiting to be bought and sit in my closet. So, set aside at least 40 to 50 dollars to spend on yourself (or less it doesn't really matter)! Whether it be for a few dinners with friends, new clothes, a night out to the bars or even on the grocery store, it will make you feel at least a little bit better knowing you had to spend 200 dollars on your French book but also got some new shoes to walk to the class with.

4. Start writing down important dates for classes.

This is key to being less stressed I promised! Marking out important dates makes you aware now, and gets you back into that deadline mindset. Knowing you have a paper due in three weeks will help you set aside some time within the next week to even start taking a look at what needs to be done. You'll feel less snuck up on, and more prepared I promise!

5. Call your family once a week!

I know you may have just seen them, but taking time out of your week to call your family members will keep you in the loop about home and make you feel a part of it. When you get stressed or busy, setting time aside to call your mom about how hard your first orgo test was will help her understand your stress and she will help you feel better! I can't tell you how many times I've called my mom after a test worried about my grades and she has calmed me down more than my friends could have.

6. Binge some Netflix (like always).

Sometimes you just need time to yourself, so why not binge some Netflix or Hulu? Taking an hour or two out of your day to finish up a series will take your mind off of the impending doom of the winter and new classes.

7. Pick up a new hobby.

Whether you want to learn how to cook, paint or exercise more, make time to explore new opportunities at your university! Taking some time out of your day to relax and make a good dinner for you and your roommates will help you relax and take much needed time out of your day for a necessity! (I personally would make five meals a day if I could).

8. Join a new club or organization at school.

One of the best way to get more hands-on experience and meet new people is through university! It doesn't even have to be associated with your major or career path, but it can just be an activity you're interested in learning more about or a hobby you like to do!

9. Start using your school's gym!

If your new years resolution was to get fit, what better time to use your membership at school then now? What better way to have a legit excuse as to why you can't finish your homework until you're done working out?

10. Enjoy this new year of new opportunity!

It's easy to get into a rut, so keep busy and enjoy this spring semester! You'll miss your time at school, so cherish it now and get ready for Little 5!