It seems like everyone is a little off their first couple of weeks back to college, whether you are a freshman, senior or graduate student! Here are some tips to keep in mind as you get ready to take on the semester!
1. Take your schedule by the helm.
Understanding your schedule, especially after getting involved with clubs, starting a job, etc, is crucial. But you cannot let it rule you as well. If you are a very busy person, setting aside enough time for yourself will be very crucial. So that means...
2. Time management is essential.
Again, because things are going to be hectic and unexpected, be as organized as possible. Document important assignment, exam and project dates, keep track of upcoming meetings, know your work schedule, and finally lay it all out in a definite schedule. Use anything you need to keep track: reminders on your phone, sticky notes, agendas, highlighters; if you are that person, then use whatever is necessary!
3. Spend some time with your friends or classmates.
Depending on your introversion and extroversion, you will need social time. Having time to yourself is good, but being with people is just as beneficial. Who else are you going to talk to about professors, homework assignments, and crazy things that you saw? You never know how busy you all may be, so definitely spend as much time together as possible!
4. Have work and relax days.
If you can manage this into your schedule, set a whole day to yourself and your work. We'll need a breather from the week, so wind down by getting as much work as you can done, and then decompress the next day (or two) before the week starts up again. Exercising, doing hobbies, and catching up on your favorite shows, movies, Netflix, etc. is also a great way to kick back after a busy week!
5. Acceptance.
Some people are graduating, and are not ready. Some people just arrived to college and are still on the fence about what to do. Some people are not sure if they really want to major in this field or not.
Uncertainties run amok during this time. There are some things you can control, and some you cannot. That is when you learn to accept what is coming, take a breather, proceed forward. You can take a step back to see the path ahead, but you have to keep going.
Hopefully these tips can help you out this semester! Now go forth and conquer the classroom!