Winter break has come to a close and the idea of making the long journey back to school haunts most college students if it hasn't happened already. As we welcome the second semester and get back into our "school routine", there are a few thoughts that run through the minds of many, if not all, college students, and here's just a few. (There are lots more than just this, but I can't include foul language in my articles.)

1. "But Christmas was just last week."

Even though that's not true (we're in the middle of January), it certainly feels that way. Sadly, the holidays are long over and it's time to get back to reality.

2. "Do I have to go back?"

Ah yes, those long sleepless nights spent contemplating whether you actually have to attend second semester or not.

3. "Can I get my degree yet?"

Looking ahead, it seems it'll take forever to graduate and, being a freshman myself, it looks like a road that never ends. Just remember that every semester is one step closer.

4. "I didn't do ____, or ____, or even ____."

It seems like winter break brings out the finest procrastination skills in all of us.

5. "I could really use a snow day."

Snow days in college may not be as common as they were in high school, but they still happen from time to time, so a prayer for a day off wouldn't hurt anyone.

6. "I forgot ____ at home."

Some of us lived out of a suitcase this past month, some of us unpacked everything and left it in a pile, and some of us combined both methods. But either way, it's easy to leave stuff behind, so double check before heading back.

7. "I feel like I'm starting all over again."

All new classes with new professors, new classmates, new books, and a new schedule; that's what awaits you. The second semester is basically repeating the same panic, stress, and sleep deprivation that happened in the first semester.

8. "How am I suppose to take this all back with me?"

I'm not sure if it's just me, but I feel like I'm taking twice as much stuff back to school than what I brought home. And how I'm actually getting it all to school is something I still have to figure out.

9. "Bye-bye, bed."

After living in a dorm for one semester, your bedroom and bathroom at home were probably two things you looked forward to when you left for break. But it's time to give those back up for a little bit.

10. "How many days until summer?"

The countdown to the end of the semester can officially begin!

To the students who have already started their semester, congratulations on surviving the first few days! To the students who will be starting soon, enjoy whatever is left of your break, prepare for your classes ahead of time, and keep a box of tissues handy for the ride back to school! I hope you have a successful and productive semester, and I'll see you at the end!