The spring semester started just a few days ago, and I suddenly felt so uncharacteristically anxious. I realized that my professors were dropping an entire semester's worth of work in front of me, and I was looking down the barrel of more reading and research than I could fathom. I took a deep breath and reminded myself this a process. I compiled a list of simple things to keep myself in check so maybe they could help you too!

1. Plan ahead. Make note of hefty assignments and exams so they don't sneak up on you.

2. Take the semester week by week. Focus on what is in front of you.

3. Sweat everyday. Exercise is good for the mind and body. Even just a twenty minute walk could ease your mind.

4. Talk to someone. Most college campuses have a counseling center. There is no shame is asking for help.

5. Take notes by hand on paper. You will retain the information better.

6. Leave your phone out of sight in class. Try it for a week and I bet you'll notice a difference.

7. Wake up more than fifteen minutes before your class starts. Give yourself time to eat, drink some water, and be a functioning human.

8. Laugh more often. It's okay to be a complete, utter mess sometimes.

9. Sleep. Don't deny your body and brain the sleep it needs.

10. Surround yourself with people you love. Spend time with people who make you feel good. You don't need fake friends or toxic relationships.

11. Give love. Make sure those friends of yours know how much they mean to you.

12. Smile more often. Being a decent human being can go a long way.

13. Find a hobby that has absolutely nothing to do with school! We all need a way to disconnect with responsibility and connect to ourselves again.

14. Set reasonable goals. Don't expect to be perfect in every class, every week. You slip up and get back on track. It is okay to make mistakes.

15. Close your eyes and take a deep breath. People are rooting for you.