The start of a new semester can be a hectic time. Getting into the routine of your class schedule (while incorporating your work schedule and other responsibilities of day-to-day life) and still managing to find time to eat, sleep, and possibly still have a social life, can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips to staying organized with your academics so that you don't drive yourself totally crazy.

1. Color-code your classes.

When I go shopping for school supplies at the beginning of the semester, I always buy a spiral and a matching/coordinating folder for each class. This makes it easy for me to keep subjects separated and organized.

2. Use a whiteboard to schedule out your week.

By hanging a whiteboard somewhere, you will see it every day can make a world of difference in organizing your schedule. If you're like me, it really helps to not only have a planner that you take to class to write down assignments and test day reminders but to have another calendar planned out so that you see it more often than only when you pull it out of your backpack. Use this to write down any sort of school assignments, test days, reminders as to when bills and rent are due, etc.

3. Go to class.

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it's imperative. A lot of professors don't take attendance, and it can be really easy to skip classes here and there (especially in San Marcos where there are so many fun things to do during the day). However, if you discipline yourself and make it a point to attend every class regardless of the attendance policy, you're sure to not miss out on lecture-specific notes and any other important information given out during class.

4. Form study groups.

By going to class, you're also making it possible to meet people and make connections. This can really come in handy with difficult classes. Studying with other people can definitely be an effective way to prepare for projects and tests.

5. Use notecards.

Writing out notecards can be tedious, but if you take the time to write out your notes on individual cards, it can make flipping through the information a lot easier and more organized. Rewriting notes, in general, has also shown to enhance your memory of the information you're studying.

6. Go somewhere besides your dorm or apartment to study.

Utilize the resources that the library offers. There are tutors available for different departments like math, English and writing. Different floors of Alkek offer different things - some floors are "silent floors," others have computer labs and laptops that you can actually check out if you need to, and there are a lot of textbooks that are on reserve and available if you are unable to buy or rent the books you need. Going to coffee shops is also nice; Tantra and Wake the Dead are great places to get a coffee and power through a study session.

7. Do your homework and stay on top of assignments.

This one also might seem like a no-brainer, but don't let yourself fall behind on assignments. This will save you so much extra time and stress in the long run.

8. Get enough sleep.

Getting enough sleep is super important. It's really easy to force yourself to stay awake in the name of studying or cramming before a test, possibly even pulling all-nighters. However, getting 7-8 hours of shut-eye every night will allow you to actually be able to fully function during the day, causing you to be more productive. Sleeping after studying also enhances your memory, so you're more likely to actually remember the study material.

Hopefully, these tips will help keep you organized and save you some time and stress along the way.

Have a great semester, ya'll!