Summer is over and the semester has begun! The campus is deserted no longer as students scamper about, heading to their classes, towards their dorms, or to the cafe to grab a bite to eat. Campus dwellers get settled into their dorm rooms, and commuters fight over the closest parking spots. The seniors fall into place, comfortable and at ease, while the freshmen glare at pieces of paper and asks questions so they don't become lost. All of these habits easily describe the workings of a new semester. The excitement is there--for those who enjoy college--and so is the impending stress. Here are some tips on how to start the semester off right, so it doesn't overwhelm!

1. Come prepared.

Don't go into your first class and already be floundering: looking for a writing utensil, a piece of paper to write on, or nothing to put your handouts in. This will already set you up to becoming quickly stressed out. Usually first days consist of each professor explaining how they will run the class, going over the syllabus and the assignments that will be given throughout the course of the semester. This typically also involves some papers being handed out and some notes to be taken. Come ready to listen and write down any information if need be. If you pay attention, you'll already know what to expect and what will be expected from you.

2. Stay organized.

Do whatever you need to do, in order to stay organized. Be sure to put everything where you can find it, because there's nothing like trying to find a worksheet you misplaced right before an assignment is due. There are plenty of methods to utilize in order to keep organized: color code folders/binders with specific classes, own a planner and USE it, have a school specific bag, etc. Organization greatly improves productivity.

3. Prioritize.

Know which assignments need to be completed first (see reference to using a planner), and always do those first. Also know which assignments greatly affect your overall grade, that way you can also apply more focus on those.

4. Make a to-do list.

Although I mentioned it briefly when talking about organization, the to-do list deserves a list point on its own. To-do lists seriously do help with keeping your thoughts organized and your "to-dos" in order. Whether you make one by the hour, by the day, or by the week and beyond, they are perfect for keeping on top of everything that needs to be done in your life—from assignments to regular chores like doing the laundry. It is easy to get caught up and forget something when you are so busy, and a to-do list helps with that. So write one down on a sticky note, keep it in the front of your notebook, type it up on your tablet, or even have it right there in your phone (there are plenty of apps for that!).

5. Set goals.

This is important. Ask yourself questions, and answer those questions. Have a plan and put it into action. Where do you want to be at the end of the semester? What GPA do you want to have? These questions may be a little intimidating, but always remember that if you set your mind to it, you can achieve almost anything. Push yourself towards these goals.

6. Reward yourself.

Anytime you get an assignment done early, study all night, or pass that exam you thought you might have flunked, reward yourself. Get some ice cream, buy that new pair of shoes, or go out with some friends.

7. Think positively

Keep an open mind and an open outlook. Don't go into the semester already thinking about how hard it's going to be, and how you're going to struggle to stay "afloat". Your actions often times can reflect your thoughts, and you don't wait to set yourself up for failure already. Be optimistic and tell yourself "I've got this"!

8. Relax.

And remember to take time for yourself. School work, class schedules, interning, volunteering, and working can all catch up to you quick. Especially if you have a lot on your plate all at once. We have all been there. If you don't take an hour or two out of each day to unwind and do something for yourself, your stress levels could potentially unhinge you. The less stress you have, the more you will enjoy the semester!

9. Establish a routine.

Keep up with all of the things above, and you won't sweat it come final exam time! Having a routine really helps keep the stress levels at bay. Try to have a set time for sleep, studying, homework, regular work, and plain old relaxation!

10. Do your best.

No matter what, just always do your best. Put effort into the semester and the results will show.