Coming back to school after any break brings many different emotions as well; this is especially so for winter break. Maybe you didn't do so well during the fall semester and you're determined to make up for it, or maybe you have a list of resolutions to fulfill. Whatever the reason, you're coming back to campus with high hopes for the spring semester. I hate to burst your bubble, but this is probably how each scenario will actually play out this semester...

The trip back to campus:

Expectation: You're ready for the (possibly) long trek to your school: you've created the perfect playlist of your favorite songs, packed plenty of snacks and made a coffee to-go at your parent's house. You think that you're prepared for the distance ahead of you.

Reality:

"Am I almost there? Only half way? Maybe someone will drive off of the road and make this ride interesting. That was mean. Maybe I'll drive off of the road from being so exhausted. I'm talking to myself. I want to die."

Your academic career:

Expectation: This is going to be YOUR semester. You are so ready to make Dean's List or land that summer internship. Nothing is going to stand in your way of getting everything done on time and amaze everyone with your stellar grades.

Reality:

"SH*T, that essay was due last night??

A more responsible social life:

Expectation: You're not going to go overboard on your drinking habits this semester. You're not going to blackout at all and you're not going to drink more than twice a week (that's what Fridays and Saturdays are for, right?).

Reality:

"I know it's Monday. What are you saying? Don't judge me!"

Financial situation:

Expectation: You're not going to spend all of your money on things like pizza, alcohol or coffee this semester. You're going to pay all of your rent on time and be a responsible (transitioning) adult.

Reality:

"Rent is due today? No problem, I'll just write a check for...the $1.54 in my bank account. F*CK..."

Eating habits:

Expectation: The cookbook your mom got you for Christmas this semester is going to come in such handy and you're going to use it all the time. Your roommates will be so happy with all of the new, fancy dishes you have perfected over break.

Reality:

"Hi, yes I'll take my usual delivery order. Yep, same address as yesterday. Thanks."

Regardless of how hard we all try, some habits are just too engrained in our behavior to cut. Let's all vow to be reasonable in our expectations this semester. Baby steps, friends. Good luck to all and to all a good semester!