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

As the second semester starts to pick up and classes are becoming stressful again, it’s important to have a good routine to maximize your productivity while still taking care of yourself. Here’s a few tips to start the semester off strong:

Set goals: Think about your main goals for the second semester, like improving your grades or becoming more involved in your extracurriculars. Setting clear and achievable goals will give you direction and motivate you to jump-start the second semester!

Organize your schedule: Create a structured schedule that includes dedicated time for not only studying, classes, and participating in extracurricular activities, but also relaxation. Planners or digital calendars can help you stay organized and manage your time effectively by visualizing the week ahead of you.

Take some time for self-care: Remember to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Make time for activities that recharge you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining focus and productivity throughout the semester, so make sure that you are getting in the habit of building this time for yourself early on!

Stay engaged: Actively engage in your classes and coursework and make sure that you are focused on getting your assignments in on time. Engaging with the material makes class more fun, and getting in the habit of staying on top of your work will help you out in the long run. 

Celebrate progress: Celebrate any achievements and milestones, no matter how small. This will help keep you motivated and on top of things!

By starting the semester off on a good note, you’re setting your future self up for success and building good habits for the rest of your college experience and beyond!

Sarah Goggin

Colgate '26

Sarah Goggin is a sophomore at Colgate University double majoring in Psychology and Classical Studies. Her interests include writing, music, reading, and fashion.