School is about to start. I know I am not ready to let summer go, but I have begun prepping for the semester so that the pressure of a new semester does not jump on me. While a new semester can often bring stress, lack of sleep, and the disappearance of your social life; I am really hoping to have a great semester. Here are a few things that that may be helpful in starting a new semester.

Attitude

You have heard it countless times. Your attitude determines your experience. This applies to many areas of your life, but having a positive attitude about sitting in long classes, writing essays, and taking exams can make a world of a difference. Trust me, a positive attitude can make the worst situation a whole lot better. When you have to take a test to take just think of something coming up in the near future. Think of meeting a friend, a birthday party or concert you will enjoy so much more if you work hard on your exam now. I know sometimes it can be hard to have a good attitude, but it is better that being miserable all semester.

Motivation

Motivation works hand in hand with effort. Without motivation you will not be willing to put in the necessary effort to get through the semester. After summer break it can be hard getting back into the rhythm for school. It really helps to find something inserting about a class or club to make you eager to return to class.

Organization

Staying organized is key to having a good semester. You do not want to miss an assignment because you misread your syllabus, or do poorly on a test because you lost your class notes. Choose an organizational method that works for you and stick to it. Use a planner to organize due dates and test dates, a folder to keep them in ones place, and a notebook or binder to keep your notes organized.

Think ahead

Think of the end goal. What is it that you are doing this for? Do you want to go to graduate school, become a teacher, work as an editor? Find ways that what you are doing on a daily basis plays a part in the role. For your major classes, think about how they are teaching you the foundation for your goals. For courses and activities you think are useless , think of them as an important step to getting where you need to go. With this in mind, you will be able to get through many rough times during the semester.

I hope these tips help you get ready for the start of the semester, and I hope you have a great semester!