Welcome back to UP (and for the newcomers, Welcome!). It’s that time of year again, switching gears from summer relaxation mode to fall semester studies. We are now entering the third week of school, so with syllabus week over things are beginning to get serious. Here are a few tips for being prepared for this new semester and school year!
1. Your planner is your best friend.
Believe me when I say this! It took me a few weeks of my first year of college to realize this. Your planner will determine your failure or success. Syllabus week is very easy, so take advantage of it! Most professors here at UP give out an entire schedule of the semester that maps out each assignment and exam. Now, after receiving one of these from each class it may seem intimidating or overwhelming. Make it less overwhelming for yourself by writing everything in your planner. During syllabus week, I got through each syllabus and transfer all due dates and exam dates into my planner. You can also write down some personal notes to maximize your success. For example, if there is an exam coming up, I write myself a reminder two weeks and one week before the exam so I can begin preparing and gathering notes. At the beginning of each week I also like to look through the assignments for the week so I can plan my schedule of studying and homework. When I see what is on the agenda for the week I find myself less stressed about deadlines.
2. Time management is so important.
This is especially true for those coming straight from high school, managing your time is something you will need to learn. Keep in mind that college is a lot different from high school, class-wise. You spend a lot less time in the classroom and have a lot more free time (assuming you aren’t involved in athletics). It is advised to spend three hours outside of the classroom for every hour you spend in the classroom. So if you have psychology 101 for an hour three times a week, that means you should be spending nine hours a week studying outside of the classroom. Also, really take advantage of breaks. For example, if you have ten minutes between classes, give your mom a call, or answer an e-mail while your walking to class. Often times I would get to class early and sit there waiting for the professor the begin class. During that time you can also take out your notes from the previous class and review them! You will most likely be picking up where you left off.
3. Don’t forget to have fun!
College is for you to learn and get an education, but it’s also a time to find yourself! Join different clubs, try new foods, take different classes, and get out of your comfort zone. You never know what you like until you try it! UP has so many different clubs, so go to the first meeting and see if you like it. (A little shout out to Her Campus) I didn’t realize I really loved writing until I joined Her Campus. Also, try intramural sports! There are so many fun sports to try out and it’s a great way to make new friends and stay in shape (yes the freshman 15 is real). UP has a variety of different activities going on every weekend, from sports games to Pilots After Dark, so don’t be shy!
Have a great fall semester everyone! Go Pilots!