The second semester is here and in full swing for many students across the country. I, myself, am now being bombarded with new syllabi, textbooks, quizzes, and stress. I did pretty well last semester, but I am always looking for ways to better myself, especially when it comes to school. I was thinking about all the things I could have improved on last semester and realized that they were so minor, and began to wonder why I had not made these simple changes earlier. But a new semester can also bring on new motivation. So I am making these 25 little changes in my every day routine and taking more time for my mental (and physical health) this semester, and so far it has worked out great! So here are 25 simple and helpful changes that you can make this semester.

1. Drink more water

2. Go to bed at a reasonable hour (not 4 A.M.)

3. Make time for meals (the granola bars stuffed into the bottom of your bag are not meals)

4. Keep your desk organized

5. Stop doing homework in your bed.. it always leads to Netflix or sleep

6. Get your homework done early, you'll have more time to relax that way

7. Make your bed (just do it)

8. Save your money

9. Don't be afraid of making new friends

10. Take study breaks

11. Look up words you don't know in your assigned readings (it takes literally 5 seconds and helps tremendously)

12. If there is an optional reading- read it! It's there for a reason

15. Eat more salad

16. Actually read the syllabus

17. Go to office hours

18. Take more advantage of the writing center

19. Try to study in the library or a study spot, rather than your room

20. Take the stairs instead of the elevator

21. Do your laundry before you run out of clothes

22. Smile more

23. Participate more in class

24. Make crazy memories with my friends

25. Relax!! Because it's all going to be okay