With the start of a new semester, and a new year, we all want to make sure we do our best. Whether this is your first semester or your last, here are six tips to help keep you on track this spring.
1. Stay organized
The key to being successful in absolutely anything is staying organized. So, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to whip out those planners and this semester’s syllabus and copy down all assignment due dates and exam dates. I find that in order to make sure you don’t forget anything you have to write it down in multiple places: I have my regular planner (both in a notebook and on my phone), a monthly dry-erase planner on my wall next to my desk and a weekly sticky-note planner. That way, I can’t make up any excuses as to why I didn’t get my stuff done.
2. Do your work ahead of time (especially online classes)
I don’t know about you guys, but I’ve had to take at least one online class per semester (two this spring). When it comes to these classes where you’re encouraged to work at your own pace, it is extremely important to make sure that you work ahead. Staying ahead of the pace set by your professors allows you to finish the class quicker and gives you the wiggle room to be able to take a “lazy week.”
3. Try not to get sick
It’s spring, aka flu and allergy season. We all know there’s nothing worse than trying to finish those multi-chapter readings and long papers that are due the same week that you got sick. Unfortunately for me, I got sick the very first week of the semester. My body is definitely not used to the fluctuating temperatures that we have here in Gainesville. However, if you’re luckier than I am and you haven’t gotten sick, make sure you take all the precautions: get your Emergen-C packs, rest and stay hydrated!
4. Apply to summer internships and jobs early
Many internships and job applications open early in the semester, and you want to be the first to jump on it in order to score interviews. Start looking at requirements for those summer plans and make sure you get everything done on time. Apply to multiple opportunities that way you have options later on. Focus on putting your best self forward and impressing those future employers with your ambition and timeliness.
5. Stay involved
Whether you are a freshman or a senior, it’s important to make the best use of your time here at UF. A lot of clubs began last semester, but they’re always looking for new members. Often times, spring semester is when new executive boards are selected for the following year. So if that’s something you’re interested in, you should start from now. Whether you want a high position or just want to lay low, it’s always nice to have something to do in your spare time.
6. Visit your academic adviser
In college, you have the freedom to set your own pace. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re meeting the requirements for graduation (no super seniors here). Since a lot of us go away for summer term (for internships, jobs or just vacation) it is important to make sure you’re aware of what classes you should be registering for. Also, it’s a good idea to make sure you are on-track for graduation. Don’t forget to do this early, because we all know how packed those advising offices get at the end of the semester!
If you can follow these six tips, you are sure to have a seamless spring semester. This will help you avoid stressful situations, and have a fun and relaxing spring. Have a great semester, Gators!