The tree has been un-decorated and thrown on the street, the stockings have been put away, you are desperately trying to shed all of that holiday weight (without much progress), and packing up to go back to college. These things can only mean one thing: the end of winter break and the start of a new semester of college. That's right: you actually have to be a functioning person come Monday morning. That means attending classes, writing papers, and waking up at a decent hour of the day. As difficult as it may be to hear, second semester is upon us, and it is important that you finish strong. After all, you are at college to go to school and learn in case you forgot. Here are some ways that you can jump into second semester and get off on the right foot:
1. Organize and clean your dorm room
Chances are, you took most of your belongings home with you over the month-long break. It is important that you get the dreaded unpacking done soon so that you won't be tempted to live out of your suitcase (like you did over winter break) for the rest of the semester. Dorm rooms are already small as it is. You don't need piles of luggage in your way. You also don't want to have to search for certain items, especially when your alarm goes off Monday morning. For me, a clean room makes me feel like I semi have my life together. So, unpack, make your bed, and tidy up your home. Be honest: you missed your square cinderblock walled room didn't you?
2. Look at your class schedule
Did you forget what classes you signed up for this semester? I did...it's been a while since I registered for them! It is kind of important that you show up to your first class of the semester semi-prepared. At least know the name of the course. It might also be a good idea to scout out where your class will be held so that you're not desperately searching for it 5 minutes before it starts, because let's be honest: you'll probably be late in the first place.
3. Buy/rent your books
Even if you didn't buy any of the books for your classes first semester and try to convince yourself that you did fine without them, imagine how much more successful you will be in the course if you actually did the reading for the class from an actual book. Knowing what your professor is lecturing about during class will make it go by much smoother. If the book is super expensive, try to find an online version, but remember, your education is a good investment.
4. Invest in a planner
My planner is my best friend. I honestly don't understand how people survive college life without one. Visually seeing what is due and when makes me stay on top of things so that I am not totally stressed out the day before 5 things are due.
5. Get back into a routine
Every day doesn't have to be the same to where your days turn monotonous, but it is important to have a loose plan to how you spend your days. Try to get back into a healthy sleep schedule. The nights of binge watching Netflix in bed until 3 am and waking up at 2 in the afternoon are over. A healthy routine for your day (including going to all of your classes and eating meals at the correct times) will help you feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the beginning of spring semester.
I hope that all of these tips inspired you even a little bit to be a bit more organized and productive this semester. The most important thing is to stay organized, motivated, and positive. If you aim for success, you will have a successful end to your year. Now go slay the next 5 months of college!
