Nothing is worse than leaving home to return to college after holiday break, and I am not exaggerating. While reuniting with college friends is nice and fun, leaving the comfort of my warm house is emotionally painful. From personal experience, I have always had a harder time during the second semester than the first. The classes seem more extensive and time-consuming, obligations outside of class for clubs/organizations, work, etc. Not to mention, mountains of snow and slick sidewalks. With all of these responsibilities, how does one stay positive and enjoy their time without being completely swamped and sad?

First and foremost, buy a planner and use this planner. I am only one week into classes and a new job, and my planner is already full of notes and reminders. Your planner will become your best friend if you are involved and keep a hectic schedule, so make sure to buy a good one. It is worth spending the money on.

Second, make a list of why your goals are so important. I try to do this at the start of every semester, but especially in the Spring semester. When swamped in school work and clinical hours, it is hard to remember why you’re there in the first place. But write down your goals and why they are so important to you! That helps keep things in perspective.

Third, enjoy the good days. The beginning of last week was so cold and sad for me, but as the week progressed, the sun started to shine a little more. I allowed myself to enjoy the little breeze as I walked to class, and took a few moments just to soak in fresh air. It may seem silly, but I swear nice weather is more healing than any medication.

Lastly, don’t feel guilty for allowing yourself to have some free time. Whether it is going to your favorite coffee shop and slowly sipping your drink, or lying in bed for an hour just listening to your music, do not feel bad that you are not constantly doing something. Allow yourself to be a human for a second, nobody is a superhuman who can do all of the things all of the time. I am even guilty of this at times, but luckily I have really good friends who remind me when I need to take a break.

I know that all of these little hints and personal strategies may not be effective for everyone, but these techniques get me through the hardest of times. I know that I am one hundred percent a different person in the winter than I am in the summer, and sometimes that can be so difficult and exhausting. But by surviving the second semester and all the nasty weather, I am able to be rewarded with sweet summertime and every bump in the road and tear shed will be worth it!