It's a brand new semester. Excitement is in the air. For most, this is a time of new professors, new books and a new class schedule. For some, it also means the 8 a.m. class that you may be dreading with every fiber of your very being. While I know all too well the feeling of separation anxiety from your warm bed in the middle of a frigid spring semester, I'm also one of the rare few who secretly signs up for these 8 a.m. classes willingly. I love mornings.

I know, it's shocking. I get questions all the time about how and why I do it. Therefore, in the spirit of new beginnings, I declare that it's never too late to add another new year's resolution to your list. Here's a list of my tips, tricks and secrets on how to avoid hitting the snooze button two or three (okay, maybe eight) times.

1. It's a marathon, not a sprint.

Think back to the last time you committed yourself to getting into shape. It isn't an overnight transformation. You have to chain yourself to a routine and stick to it even when tacos sound much better than hitting the gym on a particular night. Getting up early is no different than anything else of that nature--it's a habit. According to Psychology Today, it takes an average of 66 days to form an actual habit. If you can make yourself get up faithfully for just the first two months, I guarantee you'll get used to it. (Optional, but very helpful: get up even on days you don't have early classes! It'll speed along the process.)

2. Befriend your alarm clock--and listen to it.

It's like ripping off a bandage. Lots of people claim "I'm easing myself into waking up," when they set six alarms and doze in between them. That's like your waxer saying she's going to "gently" peel the strips off your legs so you feel every hair painfully ripping loose from your skin. Just take it from me, once you hear your alarm, know that it's in charge of starting your day and get up.

3. Time your morning.

When you're getting into your new pattern, you may deem certain things necessary or unnecessary while getting ready to face the day. Some things may also take longer than others. Watch the clock and know whether you can afford that extra few minutes of dancing in front of the mirror while singing into your bronzer brush. That may be a few extra minutes you can afford to extend the alarm you now love so much!

4. Motivate yourself to continue.

Positive reinforcement. There's no question that it works. Tell yourself that if you make it to your morning classes all week, you'll reward yourself! A trip to the movies, a spa night, some froyo or dinner at your favorite restaurant always keeps an eye on the goal.

5. Go to your happy place.

The morning isn't all doom and gloom. Take a moment to realize the great things about being up early: the alone time (let's face it, your boyfriend/girlfriend isn't up this early); the crisp, cool air; the smell of fresh coffee... it really is the little things that can change your outlook. Then, smile. I mean it. Strut across campus with a grin on your face. Professors will notice when you take your seat in their class and you're the only one who looks happy to be there (even if you're low key slightly less than enthused).