Whether you're starting school this week or next month, we can all agree that summer seems to end faster than we anticipate. I'm sure you've seen several lists of what adventures to go on, what books to read or what bucket lists to make before summer officially ends. But whether we like it or not, when summer ends we're thrown back into school head first. What can you do to prepare for the school year before it starts?

1. Get settled

Whether you're living in a dorm, apartment, or your mom's basement, be sure to get settled in and unpacked before your classes start. School is stressful enough, coming home to half-empty moving boxes every day will only make it worse. This is your home for the next semester and for some of you, the next year, so treat it like just that.

2. Do something fun

I know, this article is supposed to be about doing responsible, school-ready things but it is important to have a little fun! You don't have to do anything grand but make sure to call up a few friends and get a good hang out in before your stress-free days are over.

3. Buy cute (but reasonably priced) school supplies

No, you're not too old! You're never too old to buy school supplies you like! Personally, having notebooks, pens, etc that I'm excited about make me more eager to start the school year! However, don't go crazy. You won't even use most of them for a full year!

4. Buy a planner

"Shouldn't this be included in school supplies?" The reason for separating planner is that it is essential to the college student. Planners will be your best friend, your life saver, and your safety net. Take it from someone who never used it until college, you need one. Your life will never be the same. You can thank me later.

5. Make sure you know your schedule

Even though going to class isn't fun, you have to do it. Make yourself feel better about the first few days of class by writing your schedule in your new planner and looking over it in the days leading up to the start of the semester.

6. Talk to people who have taken your classes

If you know someone who has taken any or all of your classes for the semester, don't be afraid to reach out to them. It will help you know what to expect from different teachers and bring your stress level way down.

7. Get in touch with your professors

Believe it or not, most professors see it as making worthwhile efforts when you go out of your way to get in touch with them. Don't be afraid to send them an email before the semester starts introducing yourself. Also, be sure to ask if there will be any special requirements and what steps you can take to prepare. I can guarantee they'll be more likely to remember you.

8. Start going to bed earlier

In order to prepare yourself for the tragedies to come (especially if you have an 8 a.m.), try going to sleep a little earlier in the days leading up to school. This is something my parents made me do all the way through grade school and now I discipline myself to do it. It really does help your body start preparing for the early mornings and weird sleep schedules.

9. And getting up earlier, too

Do yourself a favor and knock the snoozing habit. Start waking up earlier before school starts and you'll be more used to it when it really counts!

10. Learn to be confident in yourself

Whether you've been to college before or not, a new semester is a new journey. Learn to be confident in yourself, your abilities, and your personality! It will help you make friends, and actually do better in your classes!

11. Pray about it

Most importantly, pray for your school year. Pray that God would calm your nerves and give you an open mind that is willing to learn. He cares for you and does not want you to worry. So, next time you get back to school jitters, take a moment to thank God for the opportunity to go to school and pray that He would use you and help you while you're there.