No one likes coming back to college after having about a month of. We suffered through all that hard work of classes and work and schedule conflicts last semester. We made it through dead week and finals week just to start all over. And though it may look helpless right now, there are so many opportunities that a new semester can bring. Here are five reasons to look at the spring semester as a clean slate, rather than another prison sentence.

New class, new me.

Of course it sounds really cliche, and a little like “new year, new me”, but really it’s the best thing that could happen. You can look forward to not having to go to the same class you couldn’t stand last year, because you don’t have it anymore. And forget seeing the professor who didn’t really like you, you don’t have to put up with them anymore. No more philosophy struggles, no more tests over tired subjects. All new content, all new professors, and all new faces.

Make new friends, and see old ones.

Today I ran into about three people who I had become friends with through the classes I had last semester. I was so happy to see their smiling faces back at this beautiful campus, and they made me happy I came back this semester. Seeing new people in your new classes makes you feel like you’ll never make friends with any of them: they’re all just too new. But keep in mind that the friends you made last semester were new to you, too. Make new friends in your classes, talk to people and have fun. And who knows, maybe you’ll create a study group which will come in handy for those long nights before exams, or even finals.

Throw out bad habits.

If you tried something last year and it didn’t necessarily work for you, throw it out. Don’t stay up late the nights before exams if you did that last year and you’re pretty sure that’s why you didn’t do well. If you packed your schedule jammed tight with no room for food breaks, take snacks instead of suffering through it. If it didn't work, chances are there was a reason for it. Why keep trying to make something work if it obviously doesn't? Throw it out and develop better habits to help you succeed.

New chances to become a better student.

Develop better studying habits. Eliminate procrastination. Try to pay more attention in that class that you think might be a little more challenging than your others. Take extensive notes in class, even if you feel like you understand the material perfectly well. Plan your day accordingly. Don’t wait until the night before to study. Use music as your friend during study times. Fix your sleep schedule. Get enough sleep. Eat breakfast. Be the best person you know you can be.

Do at least one fun thing per day.

Whether that be watching an episode of your current favorite tv show on Netflix or spending an hour on YouTube just watching your favorite YouTuber talk about things. Text someone you love and tell them you love them. Call your mom. Have a quick Skype call with your best friend at a different university or even back home. Eat something you really enjoy, even if it’s not the healthiest choice. Do something that will make you feel like you can survive this semester at least once a day.

It’s another semester, not the end of everything. Keep moving. You can do this. I believe in you. I believe in us.