If you're reading this..... CONGRATULATIONS, we survived the first week of school. Which is expected because we only have to:

1. Move into our dorms in what feels like 1,000 degree weather; while carrying heavy objects.

2. Wake up early for class after enjoying the glorious moments of sleeping in however long we please.

3. Pick out the flyest outfit for the first day back because everyone seems to be a super model and fashionista for the first week back.

3. Find our "official" seats in the classroom ( which is very important).

4. Make a good first impression on our professors so that by the grace of God if anything turns left with grading, they'll lend a helping hand!

5. Buy expensive books plus the millions of supplies that are needed for homework/projects to get done

6. (AND LAST, BUT CERTAINLY NOT LEAST) Continue to plan for our future!!!

But that's easy stuff, right?

It doesn't really get difficult until the school year starts rolling in but don't panic I'm here to help you have a successful year with this survival guide!

ATTENDANCE:

Attendance is extremely important for having a successful school year. When you show up to every class, especially on time you will automatically be on your professors good side. Professors love to see effort and drive from their students. Never coming to class and coming in late with your headphones blasting is a fast way to get on your professors bad side.

SEATING:

As i mentioned earlier seating is essential, picking the right spot will position you for success. When picking a seat in the front of class room you are introducing yourself to the professor. You are letting them know that you are present and ready to learn. A lot of times students like to hide in the back so they can text, talk, slack off and throw mini concerts but this lets the professor know that you aren’t serious. Now, not everyone who sits in the back take on these activities but do keep in mind that if you choose to sit in the back, pay attention. Ask questions, be attentive, put your phone away. Trust me, whoever you are talking to will still be there when the class is over.

NOTES:

Take notes in class, a majority of the time what is talked about in class may not be in the textbooks but are active in the test and quizes. I know class can feel like a drag at times, but push through. You are strong and capable of succeeding in whatever you put your mind to.

TALK TO YOUR PROFESSOR:

Here’s a crazy idea…. Get to know your professor. You don’t have to be best friends with them but get to know them, get comfortable with them, be friendly to them; they handle your grades folks. Of course you earn that grade by the work you put in but still take the time to have a conversation, you never know what amazing conversations or opportunities may be presented your way.

TIME MANAGEMENT:

Managing your time will make or break you, simple. You have to be able to manage your time wisely or your responsibilites will pile up. Get a planner, set alarms on your cellphone for due dates, jot things down in your calenders, plan ahead! These simple steps will take you such a long way when managing tasks.

FOCUS:

Remember why it was so important for you or your loved ones to pay so much money for you to get an education. We are all here for a reason! Create a mood board, vision board, goals board, etc. and keep motivating yourself to be the best version of yourself. Life gets hard and there will be set backs but keep pushing. I believe in you, continue to believe in yourself.

Have an amazing school year!