Are you feeling down about the new semester? Does it feel like everything is hitting you all at once? We have all been there, and most of us feel this way every time a new semester begins. Don’t worry, here are a few tips to help with the transition!
1. Set an alarm an hour before your classes begin for the first few weeks.
Although you may not be a morning person, waking up an hour before your first class can help ease your mind. By getting started early, you won’t leave items behind, you can eat a filling breakfast, and still have enough time to get to those far-away classes.
2. Make a list of all the items you need at the end of the week.
Most professors will go over the syllabus during the first class, which helps by clarifying the textbooks and other school supplies required for the course. Creating a list of these supplies will ensure you are prepared for the upcoming, busy weeks. Another perk to jotting them down is saving multiple trips to the store!
3. Keep your water bottle filled.
Almost every building on campus has a water fountain, so make sure you have a bottle to continuously fill. This will keep you from becoming dehydrated, which can contribute to the stress. Fill it up before you leave for class, during breaks, and when you’re done for the day…there’s nothing better than feeling refreshed!
4. Pack a few snacks.
One of the worst feelings is trying to pay attention when your stomach is grumbling. An empty stomach may lead to a decrease in attention. If you don’t want to munch loudly during the course, eat it on your walk between classes.
5. Sleep well.
This should always be a priority for a variety of reasons. Many students postpone sleep to complete homework assignments, work on projects, or to go out with friends. While these are all valid reasons, a lack of sleep will prevent you from being productive the next day. It helps to set a goal for the semester, specifically of how many hours you want to sleep every night, and work to follow it. Going to sleep early will lead to waking up early, which leaves room to work on the assignments you couldn’t get done the night before.
6. Make friends in class.
College courses are hard, but some are harder than others. If you don’t know anyone in your classes, try to sit by people that are taking notes and paying attention. Get to know them after class, and you will find it much easier to collaborate later on in the semester when the course load becomes difficult!
Whether it’s making new friends or packing a granola bar on your way out, these tips will come in handy if you find yourself struggling during the start of the semester. A good sleep cycle can do wonders for your life, and water can too. Don’t forget to reward yourself to a night out every now and then!