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Tips for A Successful Semester

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at IUP chapter.

With the remainder of the semester looming ahead, one has to turn to any and everything to find sources of motivation to avoid an early semester slump. From eating right to finally going to your professor’s office hours, there are multiple tips to staying on top of your game this semester. Here are nine tips on how to show this semester who’s boss!

1. Go to Class

This might seem like an obvious thing, but everyone questions if they really need to go to that lecture whenever their alarm goes off in the morning. You, or someone who cares about you, has invested in your education so grab the nearest pair of sweats and head to class.

2. Go to Office Hours

Professors are required to have office hours and no one can explain what you’re confused about better than the person who is paid to educate you. Professors are a great tool for succeeding academically and they take notice when you make the effort!

3. Sleep

All-nighters are a part of college, but the doesn’t mean that they are always necessary. Your body reacts multiple ways when you’re sleep deprived, so sometimes it’s better to just call it a night early.

4. Eat

Not only is it necessary to eat, but it is extremely important to be aware of what you are eating. Just because the food looks good doesn’t mean it’s good for you. Indulging is okay every once and awhile, but try choosing a leafy green vegetable when you can.

5. Study

One of the biggest differences between high school and college is the amount of time you spend studying. Unlike before, cramming won’t help. Try to spread studying out over the course of a few days instead of a few hours.

6. Get help

College is a stressful time. It’s okay to need to vent to a professional about what’s going on in your life.

7. Ask questions

Asking questions is a part of college and if you are unsure of something the best thing you can do is to ask questions! If you have a question, it’s more than likely that someone else the same question or a similar one.

8. Get involved

College is a wonderful time and the best way to fully take advantage of all that college has to offer is by getting involved. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and help you develop as a person.

9. Prioritize

Although it may seem tempting to put off assignments for some much needed down time, it’s always best to complete assignments as soon as possible. In short, if you have time to do the assignment today, do the assignment today.

The start of a new semester is a great time to make new friends and to try new activities. You should enjoy your time at college, but you should remember to always be a student first!

Danielle Jones is from Jeannette, Pennsylvania--a small town with big pride. As an English, Writing major with a minor is Business Administration she loves words and truly believes in their power. She is currently one of two Campus Correspondents for Her Campus at IUP. In her free time, Danielle enjoys reading, writing, and all things Shonda Rhimes.