Syllabus week is coming to a close and we all know what that means. Classes will end at their designated time (or later), you'll start drowning in readings, assignments, and tests, and the gym is no longer free. You will rarely hear anyone complain that they have nothing to do. The library will become more crowded than the bars on a Saturday night. Welcome back! Here are some ways you can keep it together this semester…or at least play it off like you do:
Get a planner.
Seriously, get one and use it. They’re a lifesaver. Keep it organized and make sure you write down all of your assignments, exams, and appointments. Even use it to keep track of your social calendar.
Start a daily routine.
Make a schedule for your day and stick to it. Other than classes, plan out when you are going to go to the library, workout, eat lunch, or even take a shower. The consistency will calm your nerves and help make you less stressed.
Go to the gym.
Make the effort and time to workout, whether it’s outside, at a gym, or in your room. You can keep telling yourself that you don’t have the time all you want, but you do. Not only will it keep you physically fit, but it will keep your mind in check too. While you’re working out, don’t think about the next chapter you need to read for your 400-level class. Use it as an hour-long distraction from life. Even better, go with a friend! Goof around!
Go to class.
Early classes are the worst, but we’ve all taken them. Suck it up and go. You won’t regret it. Don’t just show up though. Actually pay attention. It pays off. There is a reason your professor is up there speaking and the reason isn’t for his own health.
Do the reading.
Boring and textbook reading usually go hand-in-hand but your professor isn’t lying to you when he says the majority of his exam questions come from the reading. So instead of relying on your classmates to spoon-feed you the information, read. Don’t be lazy. Believe it or not, you might actually find some of the information interesting.
Don’t cram.
We’ve all waited until last minute to start studying for that exam or writing that paper. You are beyond anxious because you don’t think you will have enough time to learn everything. Well, don’t wait that long. No, I’m not saying that you should start studying in September for your exam in November, but start a good five days before your exam. It will give you enough time to review all of the information and to clarify anything you might be struggling with.
Have fun.
As difficult and stressful being a college student can be, make sure you find time to relax and have fun. Go out, take a weekend trip, or just do nothing for a change. There aren't many opportunities to just relax, especially when you graduate and you're thrown into the “real world.”
All in all, if you make the effort to follow these tips as best as you can, I can almost promise you that you will have a great semester. You might be a little sleep deprived, but most of us are. Embrace the little time you have in college and make the most of everything.
