It's about that time. Midterms and advising and registration for our spring semester courses. This time of year is full and many college students are really feeling the heat of academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities. For freshmen, advising and registration may seem intimidating but don't worry! Your adviser is well versed in what is required for your major and they will help keep you on track to for graduation. For the rest of you all, I'm sure you all are pros at this but don't get ahead of yourself. Make sure you still consider all of the options, think meaningfully about your choices and consult with an adviser for a second opinion.

1. Make your advising appointment and go into it with a plan.

While your adviser is here to help, they aren't going to do it all for you. Take a look at what is required for your degree and try checking out the courses that are going to be offered next semester before you go to your appointment. This will give you a foundation for the appointment and your adviser can tell you if you're headed in the right direction.

2. Consider your optimal class hours and your optimal productivity hours.

Yes, I get it. You HAVE to have that methods class because it's only offered at 6 pm and you must have it to graduate. That happens to everyone. For courses with more flexibility or multiple sections, consider when is the best time for you to get your homework done and don't have class during that time. This will allow you to have your most productive hours of the day for studying and completing tasks.

3. It will all work out.

When all is said and done, you will have a schedule for next semester that will contain (hopefully) a majority of things you enjoy at times that aren't too hard on you. Don't lose focus in terms of this semester while planning for the next. It is important to have a plan, just don't forget to be fully present in the now.