As the new year begins, so does spring semester. For many, last semester was pretty stressful and difficult due to the hardships that came along with the pandemic. With this new semester, you get a fresh start on being the successful college student you are! This is a great time to reflect on what worked for you and what didn't work for you last semester. This is your chance to create the best semester for yourself and make changes to your student life.

1. Use a planner.

As we get adjusted to our new classes and professors, it's hard to remember when to study and when our assignments are due. A great way to remember these crucial deadlines is by using a planner, such as an online one or cute fancy one you've bought from Target. I personally like to invest in some highlighters and colorful pens to make it more organized and fun for me. Planners will definitely save you from forgetting deadlines and will help you set up time for yourself to work and other events or reminders.

2. Set up a clean workspace.

I have a bad habit of doing my work in my bed, whether I'm laying in bed doing some assigned reading or lazily typing up an essay. Comfort is nice, but laying in bed may cause you to feel unmotivated to finish what you are doing or cause you to doze off. Having a clean and organized work space can really encourage you to be productive and study or complete all your assignments. I repeat "clean" because a messy environment may stress you out or distract you. A nice space dedicated for only school work will train your brain to focus and increase productivity.

3. Go to class.

I know how tempting it can be to skip a class or just sleep in the background of a Zoom meeting. Attending your classes and being attentive is the best way to make this semester easier on yourself. Actively listening will help you later when you're studying or getting ready for your quizzes or tests. Sometimes lecture gets boring and you start zoning off, but try taking notes. Even if your professor speaks quickly, jotting down a few notes can help you a lot. Plus, it gives you something to do, so you're not just sitting still.

4. Ask for help.

Taking on an online course or any course in general can be difficult these days. Professors are unclear, textbooks can be confusing, and there are so many reasons as to why we may not fully understand what we are learning. It may seem extremely boring, but office hours are a great resource and should be taken advantage of. Many classes have these periods of time available in person and online for those who want to become more successful in their work.

5. Join a study group.

More than likely, if you're struggling with a concept in class, there is probably someone else who is also just as confused. Studying in a group can be very helpful, and it's important to be consistent. Learn how to stay on track with your fellow peers, and do well together. This is a great way to make friends and learn together. You can also pick up on their strategies and understand what you're learning in different words.

6. Take care of yourself.

A grumbling stomach is the last thing you want during lecture. Don't forget to put yourself first this semester! Remember that food is fuel for your body. You won't get anything done on an empty stomach. Eating proper meals and sneaking in some snacks during your studying will help you focus and feel good. It's also important to make sure you're getting enough rest and sleeping. Staying up all night studying will not help you retain information. It's best if you put aside some time throughout the day and get your sleep at night.