So this new year your resolution is to do better in school. To be more organized and efficient and study harder because Fall semester didn't quite go to plan. Start off right now because there are tons of things you can do to try and make sure spring semester goes exactly as planned!

1. Get your textbooks

Anyone who is selling their books from last semester would have most likely already posted on BU groups about them. Look through the groups and get in contact with the sellers before the semester starts because it's very likely they will sell out by then. Also, ask anyone who has taken the class previously if they have an online PDF version of the textbook that they could share with you (I already got two of my textbooks for next semester this way!). Lastly, you could also always email your professor for next semester and ask for the textbook. Tell them you would just like to buy it cheap and once you have that information, go to Amazon and look for the book on rent or resale- this is usually your cheapest option and, once again, you want those books before they sell out!

2. Career Development

If you don't already have a resume--what are you doing?! The new year is a perfect time to update your resume with all the things you've achieved in the last year or even to write out a new resume! Ask your parents for help with this, they might be able to catch a volunteering opportunity you accidentally left out. The BU CCD is also always available to help with resume-building and other career development opportunities. Most importantly, set realistic goals for yourself in terms of long-term developments.

3. Apply for a job

Now that you have your resume, if you're planning on getting a part-time job this semester, now is the perfect time to look through the job listing board on the BU student link (it's under the work tab). Going through these listings and sending out e-mails to potential employers can be slightly time-consuming, but if you get it out of the way hopefully there will be a job waiting for you when you come back to school. Another bonus is that it will be easy to transition into a new schedule if all the elements of the schedule are in place. Employers are likely to be in a festive mode post-holidays and looking to replace employees who are no longer with them for the new year--so try e-mailing around the start of the 2nd week of January!

4. Pack wisely

OK, I know all of you usually leave the packing to the last minute but hey, new year new you right? You won't remember you broke your umbrella last semester until the evening of your flight and then it will be too late. Pull out the packing lists you had for the first semester of freshman year and just make sure you still have all those items. Look at the calendar for any cultural events/job fairs you might need specific clothing for. Restock toiletries cleverly and use your mom's credit card to buy that new tapestry you've wanted for the room. I also like to fill up my suitcase with as much food as possible. Don't leave any of your Christmas presents behind and now that you know how cold Boston can get, bring the few additional layers.

5. Plan your fun

Spring semester=Spring break. If you're trying to getaway with your friends to a Miami beach for break, now is the time to let your parents know and book those tickets. Also, pack those swimsuits and start hitting the gym! If you see Kanye is coming to Boston again and you need those concert tickets (pray he won't cancel your show) this is the time to find a concert buddy and ask your parents for a little extra money (Isn't everyone a little more generous during the holidays?). You can also put aside the cash you got for Christmas for a big event you have planned instead spending it all on food in your first two weeks.

6. Actually study?

Ok I might get hate for this but seriously--if Chem 101 absolutely crushed you and you cried every week, Chem 102 won't be any different. For a lot of the year-long courses (CH101 &102, MA123 & 124 etc) the workload, structure of class, textbook etc will be the same. Why not get a head start on the semester by just browsing through the textbooks or watching a few Khan Academy videos? If someone told you electric circuits is the absolute worst class at BU, ask them for their notes or get the textbook (see point number 1) and familiarize yourself with the topics you will be covering so you aren't too overwhelmed. The feeling of confidence you will have during the first week of classes will go a long way in determining your attitude for the rest of the semester. Better than waking up before the first midterm clueless.

All in all, I hope everyone has a great Spring Semester and may the odds ever be in your favor!