The semester has officially begun and syllabus week is over. Now, it's time for all of us to start getting settled into our new classes and making sure that we stay on top of all of our assignments. Here are a few tips that will help everyone start the spring semester off right!
1. Start Using An Agenda.
The most important aspect of a successful semester is planning. So buy an agenda and start getting into the habit of writing down every due date and upcoming task, so you can plan ahead and use your time wisely. Agendas help people visualize when your assignments are due, when you have to work, and any other tasks that you may need to complete.
2. Get Organized.
Print out all of your syllabi and course calendars and make sure that every class has a binder/notebook/folder. Keep the printed copy of your syllabus and course calendar in the front pocket of your binder so you can refer to them easily throughout the semester (for professor email, professor office hours, etc.).
3. Stay On Top Of Reading(s).
It seems like most professors encourage several reading assignments the first couple of class periods and it can be easy to think "Oh... I don't need to read those, they'll eventually teach us that material." Well, no. You do need to read everything the teachers assign — especially in the beginning of the semester because those readings are usually full of material they do not intend on covering/want you to read, so you can understand the future material. Stay on top of your readings to ensure that you aren't confused when the teacher starts pulling terms/references from the early readings of the semester.
4. Make Friends.
Meaning, make friends in your classes so you guys can study together/help each other if you have questions or need to miss a class. These friends don't have to be someone you're going to become best friends with. They just need to be someone that will pay attention in class (just like you... right?), is willing to meet outside of class to study, and will actually help with the material.
5. Don't Procrastinate.
Yes, everyone (especially myself) loves to procrastinate — until the night before an exam and then we hate ourselves for doing it. So, to prevent this from happening, make sure that you jump into the semester right away and start tackling all of the school work and studying — it will pay off in the end!
