Whether we like it or not, fall semester is here. That means waking up early, going to classes, having homework, and trying to balance personal life with school life. Adjusting to school can be hard after a whole summer off, and it can be difficult to know where to start to ensure a great semester. Here are 9 tips for having a successful semester, whether you are new to college or just trying to improve yourself.

1. Invest in a planner and use it

It can be difficult to remember everything you need to do on a given day. Between classes, work, and clubs, college students have a lot going on. Buy a planner and actually use it. Write due dates, exam dates, work shifts, and club meetings; it'll help you to stay organized and better manage your time.

2. Develop time management skills

I cannot stress this enough. In order to be successful, you MUST effectively manage your time. Don't get behind on assignments because it's difficult to catch up and don't put things off until the very last minute. Create a study plan that works for you and that's efficient, and work on homework in between your classes. Sometimes you may have to sacrifice a night out to get things done, and that's okay.

3. Don't overbook yourself

The number of clubs and opportunities out there is limitless in college; you may find yourself wanting to join everything. Don't. If you join 5 clubs, you will only stress yourself out when trying to complete your school work. Start with joining only a couple organizations that are of the most interest to you, and join another one if you find you have the time to.

4. Have a positive mindset

It's easy to get down on yourself if you feel overwhelmed with work or get a bad grade on an exam. Having a negative mindset will only make things worse, and once you're in that pit of negativity, it's hard to dig yourself out. Remain hopefully about the future, think of the positives, and tell yourself that you can do it.

5. De-stress

Let's face it; college is very, very stressful. There will be times where you feel very stressed out and overwhelmed. Make sure you have a de-stressing method or activity you can do when you feel stressed to the max. Go for a run, drink hot tea, take deep breaths, or whatever else will make you feel calm and relaxed.

6. Allow yourself to have some "me" time

You may feel like you have to do every activity your school offers or go out with your friends every time they ask, even if you don't want to. Don't be afraid to take some time to yourself and have a relaxing day or night in. It's important to rest and recover after an extremely busy week, so turn on Netflix and recharge your brain to go back at it the next day.

7. Keep distractions to a minimum

This applies to when you are in class or when you are studying. Don't scroll through Twitter when you have an exam to study for or while sitting in a lecture. Study in an environment where you will not be distracted, such as the library or a coffee house. When you are in class or trying to complete assignments, make sure your attention is fully on the task at hand and not on other things.

8. Do all your work

Yes, this includes all the readings that are assigned. They may seem "pointless," but the material in the readings will likely show up on exams or future assignments. Do all of the readings and assignments assigned in the syllabus, even if they are not graded; they will help you to prepare for exams.

9. Go to class

Unless you are in bed with the flu or have an excused absence, go to all of your classes. Don't skip them because it's "boring" or "too early." Going to class is the easiest and best way to ensure you will be successful. When you are in class, make sure you are actually present. Take notes, ask questions, and pay attention to what the professor is saying.