It’s that time of year again. The sun is out, it feels like summer and yet we’re all about to be trapped in classrooms once again. Can you feel the nervous excitement and anxious dread filling the air yet? Because I sure can. So here are some ways you can get ready and feel prepared for the rush of assignments after that first week of classes.

1. Clean everything.

I know I always feel more anxious and unprepared when my life is filled with clutter and dust so before school starts I like to try to clean my surroundings. Starting off on a nice ‘clean’ slate is the best way to start of the new school year. Plus, it can also help you get organized before those assignments start piling up.

2. Stock up on supplies.

Having working pens and pencils, along with highlighters, paper and anything else you may need is the best way to start new classes because after class actually starts it can be hard to make a run to Office Max or even to the bookstore. I always try to start off with enough supplies to get me through the semester so I don’t ever run out of ink or paper.

3. Plan out your schedule.

Maybe it’s just me, but I like to have a day by day general schedule to go by before I start the year. This way I know where I have to be and when, and I can more easily juggle work, school, extracurricular activities and even working out. This might not work for everyone but for me it helps to have an outline and I can set goals for time management.

4. Start a daily or weekly planner for assignments and activities.

This might sound very similar to number three, but this is much more detailed planner. I usually include when I have work, when I have class, due dates for any assignments, any retreats I have and other miscellaneous things (even including hanging out with friends). While it may sound a little depressing to have every second of your day planned out, I think of it more as a guideline for myself and it helps me get things done so I have more free time in the long run.

5. Smile.

Going into a new school year with a positive attitude is the best thing for you. While I might actually be dreading this year I’ve picked out some things that I’m excited about in my classes, clubs or even at work so that I don’t get stuck in a pit of, “I don’t wanna go to school.”

While school is starting back up, find time to enjoy the sunshine by studying outside or just taking a moment to relax during your busy day because before you know it, it’ll be snowing and the semester will be over once again.