As we approach the middle of the first semester sometimes we can get a little lazy. Hopefully, these 5 tips can help you get back on track and finish out the semester strong!

BUY A PLANNER AND USE IT.

I can not stress this enough, the act of physically writing down the event will not only set as a physical reminder in your planner but also a mental reminder in your head. When you write something down it is more likely that you will remember it in the future. Go through all your syllabi and write down all the major due dates, canceled classes, and other dates pointed out by the professor. This will keep all of your due dates and plans in one place making it easier for you to see what's due and what you can procrastinate with a little more.

MAKING TO-DO LISTS.

This one is similar to planning except it's a little less informal. I make to-do lists like it's my job. Making to-do lists helps me to see everything that I have to do for the day and then I can arrange the order in what needs to get done first based on priority. And come on let's be honest here crossing off things you've accomplished on your to-do list leaves you with a very happy and satisfied feeling.

HAVING TIME TO YOURSELF.

This one may seem silly but taking a few minutes out of your day to just sit back and breathe away from technology and the fast pass of our lives and read a book or write down thoughts is a great way to calm down your body and help relieve some of your stress from school. Take some time to yourself. You deserve it.

FORM STUDY GROUPS.

If you're taking a super hard class then reach out to some students in your class and see if you can form a study group. This will help you and them pass the class. You can each divide up the notes and make personal study guides to share and then your getting different people's notes on top of your own so you will have double the notes to study making you extra prepared for that test. Also making a study group introduces you to new people and who knows maybe you'll make some friends.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.

With the Holliday season approaching, you don't want to be sick or swamped with assignments when all your friends are hanging out. Help yourself feel better by listening to your body, if you're getting sick go get orange juice and take a few vitamin c's to help your body fight off the cold before it gets bad. Remember to eat and eat right. Sometimes it's okay to splurge and have that extra cupcake or another soda, but listen to your bodies signals and take care of it before it gets worn down. Work on your assignments ahead of time to help you not be swamped during the holidays. Planning ahead can help you manage your time and be stress-free during the most wonderful times of the year!

Hope these tips help you get back on track and in the right direction as we approach the middle of the semester!

Thanks for reading!

-Katlin Smith