My first semester of college was a huge deal for me. It was finally the first time I was on my own. With absolutely no one to ask if I could go out, no one to tell me to do homework. All the decisions I made were on me, both good and bad. I for the most part successfully fed myself and did my laundry all on my own. Im proud of how my first semester of college went, in the fact that I made great friends and learned a vast amount of valuable lessons in a short four months.
Even though I'm proud of this first semester, of course there were things I could have done better in, or wish I realized earlier on.
From my past experience, throughout what I have learned during my first semester of college - here are eight new semester resolutions to help get you through these next few months.
Here's to a second start this 2016!
1. Ditch the Unhealthy Relationship.
If you fell short on important things last semester due to stress and negative impacts of a toxic relationship--just as I did--then say goodbye and focus on yourself! College is where you find yourself, as well as prosper and grow as a person. If a relationship hinders you from being able to do these things then how is that beneficial to you? If you choose to have a relationship with someone in college, then they should support and motivate you to do good. Instead of fight with you 24/7 via text message.
2. Create a Schedule!
Time management is one of the most important things you can learn in college. For me, last semester got very stressful balancing work, when things were due, activities.. ect. Things were all over the place. Having a planner immensely helped me. Creating a schedule that works for you is one of the best things you can do in order to juggle the craziness. Whether you prefer using your phone or an old fashioned planner - try to stay organized and take note of days and times of events or things that are due.
3. Drink Coffee
As college students, it's safe to say we could all use the extra boost of caffeine in the morning. If you had no energy in those early mornings last semester, then drinking coffee will definitely help you be more awake and alert for those tedious 8ams. The days I went without my morning cup were absolutely horrible. I cannot necessarily explain it, but for some strange reason when you walk to class having a cup of coffee in your hand - you look as if you somewhat have your whole life together. Then there's also the fact that drinking coffee can give you an ideal place to study, whether it be Starbucks or a local coffee shop. Next semester invest in drinking coffee if you don't already!
4. Avoid FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
Next semester do not be afraid to say no to your friends. If you aren't up to hanging out due to having an important test or assignment the next day--then its simple, don't go. Having fear of missing out on social events with friends, can quickly lead to you actually missing out on better grades and time to get things done. It took me a long time to finally realize that you aren't missing out on much. There will be plenty of other opportunities to hang out with your friends. Trust me it's not a do or die situation.
5. Balance Partying and Studying Better.
Of course being in college is a perfect time to go out and have fun with friends (you're only young once right?), but there's a fine line in taking things too far. When I say "partying" I am primarily referring to drinking. If you felt last semester consisted of a little too much "partying" and not enough studying then make a change! If you want to eventually graduate college and get a degree then your main priority has to be your studies. Yes, this means having to take a pass on the party that's happening the night before your exam.
6. Surround Yourself With More Positive People.
Shut out all the negative people who you felt brought you down last semester and surround yourself with ones who are there for you. Let's be honest, there will continue to be hard days you come across in this new year, having caring friends there for you through it is the best help you can get. Be smart about who you're close with and who you tell personal information to.
7. Sleep More!
Although this is extremely hard... You need sleep to function the right way. If you're anything like me then you most definitely have had those nights staying up till 4 in the morning finishing an essay that's due tomorrow at 10. Stray away from this as much as you can. Not getting enough sleep can affect your performance in class, as well as your health. Getting enough sleep plays a key role in academic success. Try to make it a priority to get to sleep at somewhat decent time.
8. Establish Better Relationships With Your Professors
Leave memorable imprints with your professors, don't just be a face in the back of the class. Eventually college will be over and it will come time to find a job - your professors can open doors for better opportunities and a future career.
In college, it's never too late for a fresh start! Make 2016 worth wild.
