The 2017 spring semester is finally upon us. While I could've used an extra week of break, I'm still excited for what this semester will bring. If last semester was rough in terms of your course load (we've all been there), hopefully, this semester will be easier on the brain. Or maybe your course load wasn't that bad and you were just really unorganized. Again, we've all been there. Whether it was your first semester in college or you're just a really scatterbrained upperclassman, here are some good things to get into the habit of doing to make life easier!

1. Use a planner.

I didn't do it until my second year of college, but it has honestly been a lifesaver. When the professor assigns a 5-page research paper due in three weeks, you can write it down right away to minimize the chance of you forgetting. A planner is also a good way to keep track of club meetings or other events.

2. Drink more water.

I'm not your mom so I won't harp on the importance of water too much, but increasing your water intake is important! It's good for your skin and for your body. Your brain won't be working too well if it's dehydrated.

3. Get to bed at a reasonable hour.

I've found that after midnight my brain does not retain ANYTHING. So no matter how much studying or homework I still have left to do, you can bet I'm asleep by then. Coffee, though it seems like a magic beverage, can not give you a full night's sleep. Plus you're more likely to get sick when you're low on sleep and no one has time to get sick.

4. Write your notes by hand.

Technology is a wonderful thing. However, taking notes by hand helps you remember what you're learning more than typing does. You can find tons of cute and effective note taking formats on Pinterest!

5. Actually complete the assigned reading from the textbooks.

It seems tedious, but it can help you understand the material more! Even if you can't do all of the reading, making an attempt is a good habit to start.

6. Take some time to relax.

College is a stressful time, but you still have to make time for you. Take the time to binge a couple episodes on Netflix, read a book you like or write for fun. Do whatever it takes to remind yourself that there is more to life than exams and GPAs.

7. Study your notes after you take them- and not just before the exam.

If you have the time, getting into the habit of studying the notes you took in lecture will be a huge help to your grade. Cramming might be effective at the time, but in the long run actually knowing the material from studying it as you learn it will be even more effective.

8. Talk about the things going on in your life.

By this I mean talk to your friends about your personal life, things other than school, Mental health is very important! Your friends are there for you to confide in. You'll find yourself doing better in school if you don't have stressors from your personal life eating away at you.

Hopefully, you find these tips helpful. If not, I'm sure there are other great articles out there on how to get more organized and create better habits. Best of luck this semester! May you see a dog every day and keep that GPA high.