So, it's the end of the summer. You've had three beautiful months of warm weather, sun, perhaps a bit of beach time, but now you're being thrust back into reality as you suddenly realize: you have to go back to school.
You didn't think this could last forever, did you? Those delicious summer days where you could wake up whenever you wanted (if you're lucky enough), see your friends back home, and maybe, just maybe, do absolutely nothing at all. But it's nearly mid August, so it's time to get those gears in motion. It's time to start thinking about heading back to college.
Now, for some of you this may seem exciting! A new school year, new classes, maybe a new dorm or apartment... Oh, the possibilities! And for some of you... well, some of you are filled with dread. Either way, I've created a list to help you get excited, or just ease that anxiety that's lolling around in your head.
1. Create your school schedule.
Yeah, this one sounds a bit lame. But drawing out your week and plotting in the times in which you are in class, at your job/internship, and other activities can get you better organized for your new upcoming year.
2. Throw. Out. Your. Stuff.
I cannot stress this one enough. Seriously. Every year I go back to school, I have more and more junk I do not need. It always just ends up taking space in a dorm room that is way too small, and I never look at it during the year, not once. So please... grab garbage bags and recycling bins for all those loose papers you held on to for some reason. Go through all of your things (each and every one of your things), and ask yourself: "Do I really need this? Will I use it?" If the answer is no, chuck it. Or at least, leave it at home to junk up your room there.
3. Clothes. All the clothes.
Yeah, back to school clothes shopping is pretty cool. But didn't you do that last year, and the year before? And possibly at Christmas time? Mhm, I thought so. So go through your clothes and pick out the best outfits you have. Make sure you're not lacking in any department. Don't pack too many shirts and one pair of pants. What you end up with may not seem like a lot, but the alternative is a suitcase full of clothes you swear you'll wear at one point, but never really do.
4. Discover a new look!
It's college. I doubt anyone will seriously judge you. But summer is over, and if you're not totally excited about your school year, perhaps a makeover will give you an exciting new attitude.
5. And finally, get it out of your system!
This is it. You won't have another summer break until next year, and who knows what your plans will be then. Go outside, run around. Get in a pool. Have a cookout and make some burnt s'mores. Watch every single episode of "Lost" in one day. Whatever makes you happiest. Because ready or not... the school year is here.
