As the spring semester begins, it's easy to feel nervous or overwhelmed about what lies ahead. Here are seven small reminders to keep in the back of your head as you head into the final few months of the school year:

1. Reflect on last semester.

Take a few moments to think about what you succeeded at last semester and what you wish you could've done better. Maybe you need to get more organized, spend less time watching Netflix, or communicate better with your professors. Do a self-assessment and see what is realistic for you to improve upon this semester.

2. The end is in sight...

You're almost there! The light at the end of the tunnel is now almost in reach, so know that you only have a little bit farther to go. Soon enough, you'll be back at the beach with the sun on your skin.

3. ...But don't get lazy.

With the finish line being so close, it's easy to start slacking the last half of the year. Use finals as your motivation to keep trucking through these next few months. Work hard and know that one day it will pay off. Remind yourself that it is a privilege - not a right - to be getting a college education, and there are millions of other people who would do anything to have the opportunities that you have.

4. Put yourself first.

This is your education and your future that you're working for. Do whatever it is you need to do to make sure that you stay healthy and motivated these last few months. Your best work is only achievable when you are at your best, so eat healthy, get as much sleep as you can, and know what your priorities are. Remove yourself from toxic people or situations and focus on making yourself the best *you* possible.

5. You've made it this far.

Why give up now when you've already come so far? Make the rest of the work you've done this year mean something and keep pushing through to the end. It sucks and it's tiring, but if you give up now, everything else you've worked for would be for nothing.

6. Stay present.

Don't get tunnel vision. Yes, you're almost there, but the fact is that you still have to get through a few more months before summer. Nothing will make that time go by faster, so just try to enjoy what you can of it. Stay present and live in the moment, it will make the days until summer a lot more enjoyable.

7. Embrace the fresh start.

A new semester is a new start. Whatever happened last semester is in the past. Make new friends, get ahead on your work, and simply try to be a better version of yourself.