This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at St. John's chapter.
2020 was an emotionally taxing year. As the new semester begins, many are back on campus again for the first time. While the new school year brings endless opportunities and potential, it can be challenging to navigate this new sense of normalcy. The following tips will help you start the fall semester off right:
- The first tip is to introduce yourself to professors. Becoming acquainted with professors shows them that you care, and they will appreciate this. They won’t forget the initiative taken by you. Establishing a connection with professors early on ensures that you don’t just blend in with the crowd.
- Ensure you have read your syllabus (thoroughly)! This is one of the most, if not the most important tip to having a good semester. Though some are time consuming to read, each course has a syllabus for a reason. Many professors spend a large amount of time putting them together, and they are crucial for success. A course syllabus will generally include the availability and contact information of your professor, a breakdown of how your grade will be determined, their expectations of you, and the course requirements and schedule. They are essentially a treasure map to success for the semester. The benefit of reading a syllabus is that you will always be prepared. The downside of not reading a syllabus could be feeling lost.
- Tip 3 is to stay organized. This can be difficult for some, but taking small steps each day towards organization will definitely pay off. 5+ classes can be a lot to juggle, so purchasing a planner is a helpful way to keep yourself on track and to complete assignments on time.
- Staying organized comes into play in this tip as well, which is make a schedule for yourself. Put aside time in your day strictly for tasks you want and need to have done. This makes it difficult to procrastinate. It also ensures the completion of tasks.
- Though shyness often gets the best of us, the fifth tip is to make a friend in each class. It is always great to have someone to reach out to if you feel unsure about something going on in class and need clarification. A lot of us get anxious when it comes time for midterms and finals. Having a friend also means you have a study partner. Making a friend in each class is a great way to start the semester off right.
- The final tip is very essential and should be on the top of your list. Breathe. Self care is extremely important. When asked their biggest weakness, many college students will often say they are too hard on themselves. Don’t be. Remember, your mental health comes first. Allow yourself to take breaks, breathe, and remember you are not alone.
A new semester offers new beginnings. Take advantage of it and become the best version of yourself you can be. I hope these tips help you advance this semester, and make your college experience as enjoyable as they have made mine.