A new semester of college is a blessing in disguise. A fresh start. A new beginning. You have the power to choose how this semester goes for you. To make it a great semester, here are a few tips that have worked in the past!

1. Keep a positive mindset

This is perhaps the most important step to having a successful semester. Staying positive helps. Even though this sounds self-explanatory, many people forget to do this and get caught up in stress. Yes, myself included.

2. Be prepared

Buy your school supplies and textbooks ahead of time. Know your schedule. Fill out your planner with 10 different colored pens. As cheesy as this sounds, you will feel so much more relaxed going into the semester.

3. Have a good playlist made for when you are stressed out

Music cures all, especially when you are feeling stressed to the max. Make a playlist of your favorite songs that will make you feel better when you are down.

4. Hang out with your friends you didn’t see over break

Whether it’s going on a coffee or food date, or just hanging out watching Netflix. This will help you relax and have fun with the people you missed over break.

5. Stay in touch with your family and friends from home

These are the people who probably know you the best. That means they know how to cheer you up when you’re upset. You will not be able to see them as much at school, but talking to them regularly will help.

6. Plan fun things to do for when you are back at school

College towns are notorious for having many interesting and fun things to do. Make time to experience some of these things that you may not have in your hometown. That will surely take away some of your stress.

The thought of a new semester can be exciting, yet stressful. I hope these tips can help ease the stressful parts!