It is crazy to think that I am starting my second semester of freshman year. First semester was definitely a roller coaster filled with tons of different emotions- homesickness, anxiety, excitement, stress, exhaustion, and both laughter and tears. I am looking forward to this next semester because I am not going in blind since I know what to expect. First semester was a big learning opportunity, but this next semester should be even better because I am now comfortable and confident away at school.

First semester was filled with both good and bad experiences. I am looking forward to building off of the lessons I learned to make this next semester even better than my first semester. I not only learned how to survive college and its classes, but I also learned many important life lessons. It is amazing because this whole college thing is not only teaching me about my chosen major, it is also teaching me important skills and helping me figure out who I am and who I want to be. I consider myself lucky because I have a great friend group at school and we are all very supportive of each other. The outcome of this next semester depends entirely on my attitude and effort. This is why I am going into second semester with an open mind and the drive to work hard. Buckling down and finding the balance between being social and being studious is one of the main keys to success on this crazy journey known as college.

Here are a few things I learned which will help me be successful for these next few months:

1. Stay organized

Staying organized not only helps me keep on top of things, it also makes studying and doing homework much easier.

2. Go to class

If you miss a class it can be very tough to catch up because many college courses are taught at a quick pace. If you skip class frequently, it will be very difficult to catch up. Also, do not be a tuition burner, so go to your classes because you are paying a lot of money for them.

3. Do all of your homework

Homework can be annoying, but it is important. It is the necessary practice outside of the classroom which allows you to know if you actually understand what is going on or not. It is also one of the main keys in doing well on quizzes and exams. Do not be lazy and give up easy homework points, whether you want to believe it or not they can make or break your overall grade.

4. Sleep often and maintain a healthy lifestyle

If you do not get enough sleep, you are not going to retain any information in your classes because you will be exhausted. Sleep is not only important for learning, but it is also important for your health. If you are not sleeping enough you will get sick, and being sick away at school is one of the worst things ever. Keep a balanced diet and also do not forget to exercise. Exercise is a good way to battle stress which is something many college students struggle with handling.

5. Remember to have fun

School and school work come first, but make sure to leave time for yourself and your friends. Everyone says that college is some of the best years of your life, so make sure you leave some time to go out with friends and make some memories. Finding your balance is the magic key to having the ability to be social and academically successful. With hard work and a positive attitude, this next semester of college is going to be great.

Even though I am excited to go back, it will definitely be tough leaving home after being here with my family for over a month. I will again have to say goodbye to friends who attend different colleges and pack up my things to move back into school for this next semester that is sure to fly by. I will again have to adjust to no more home cooked meals, sleeping in my own bed, or venturing off to Marylou's until I come home for spring break. I am expecting to feel a little homesick once I am back at school, but I know once I get back in the swing of things I will be perfectly fine. It seems that whenever I am at home, I want to be with my friends from school. And when I am at school, I want to be home with my family. Once classes start up again I will not have the time to even think about being homesick because I will be focused on doing well in ALL of my classes.