The beginning of a new semester is always a little bit stressful. Between the new classes, new professors, and new expectations, it tends to get overwhelming for a lot of people, especially me. Here are a few ways that I like to help myself become more confident about the upcoming 16 weeks.

1. Buy a planner

I just spent $20 on a planner from Amazon called The Simple Elephant - and I have no regrets. It has designated areas to set yearly and weekly goals, a section for a weekly reflection, and it's nondated, meaning that you can start using it the minute it comes in the mail and not waste any part. You don't even need to spend $20, Walmart has perfectly good planners for $5-$10, but it really helps to have a place to write all of your appointments, assignments, and exams, especially if you're as forgetful as I am.

2. Make a weekly schedule

Beyond a planner, it really helps to know exactly when you're doing homework, when you're relaxing, etc. I just spent well over two hours making this schedule that all of my weeks will look like for the next sixteen weeks. I color coordinated it because it's prettier that way and I feel more organized. Sunday is almost all pink because it's my time to clean, do my laundry, go grocery shopping, and basically do any chores that I've been putting off. Peach is obviously for my classes. Blue is study time, and purple is "me" time to do whatever makes me happy and not stress. However, it's important to not get too invested in your schedule. This can help you stay on track, but things change on a weekly basis. I keep reminding myself that it's okay if a day doesn't go perfectly according to plan, this schedule is just a general guide so I don't nap and watch Netflix all week.

3. Get a head start

I clearly have a lot of time set aside to study. At the beginning of the semester, I know that I won't have very much due right away, but it's always a good idea to get started on some things you know are coming up. If you have a huge paper due at the end of the semester, start outlining and researching now. You'll thank yourself, I promise.

4. Take care of yourself

Try not to stress too much about the semester. Do what you can to prepare, try your hardest, and then try to let it go. Whatever happens, you will be okay, I promise. Instead of stressing, step back and take a minute to relax. Self-care is so important for your physical and mental health. Set aside time for you to do whatever you want, whether that's walking around a park, going to the movies, having a spa day, or doing anything that lets you relax to and take time to yourself.