The transition from high school to college can be difficult for everyone; from making new friends, to trying to find your "place," and staying on top of school work. So here are some helpful hints to help every college student reach their academic goals.

1. Buy a Planner

Let me repeat this: BUY A PLANNER! Personally, I use a planner with the monthly layout options along with daily sections. I use the monthly section for big events and deadlines while the daily section I use for smaller deadlines and just pre-planning my day. It's helpful so you don't overbook yourself. No one wants to text your friends saying you can't come to lunch because you forget you had an advisor appointment, the FOMO will be real. Most colleges even provide free planners to students if you show your university issued ID, who doesn't love free stuff? Another helpful hint: Color coordinate all your activities such as classes, meetings, extracurriculars, volunteer hours, etc. If keeping a physical planner isn't your thing, try using Google Calendar to keep yourself organized. It's easily accessible on your phone and laptop.

2. Use Sticky Notes

Sticky notes are lifesavers. If you have a major assignment due soon, write it on a sticky note and put the sticky note somewhere you know you'll see it multiple times, like on a bathroom mirror, bedroom door, or fridge. It almost guilts you into getting your assignment done because you'll hate seeing it. You can also use sticky notes in books you've rented to summarize important information, such as key concepts and formulas, from that text.

3. Keep Your Bag Organized

First and foremost, pack it the night before. Every college student, relies on that extra 5 minutes of sleep, so spare yourself the night before. Thank yourself later by putting your papers in the correct folder or binder instead of shoving them inside your bag to rush out of class. Some of my backpack essentials are: My phone & laptop charger, class necessities (folders, pens/pencils, syllabuses, etc.), wallet (always in need of your student ID), keys, Ibuprofen, a reusable water bottle, and some small snacks.

4. Minimalistic Desktop

While studying in your room isn't always ideal with loud roommates and plenty of distractions, keeping your desktop minimalistic will make it much easier on those days you can't make it to the library. Also, having a dry erase calendar looming over your desktop will reminder you of those impending deadlines looming over your head.

5. Laptop Organization Is Key

Organize all your classes on your laptop, trust me you'll thank me later. Make a "college" folder in your documents, and create subfolders for each of your classes. This way you can organize all your syllabuses, powerpoints, assignments, and notes in one place.

Lastly, you're welcome. Now, by following all of these tips, you'll be well on your way to that 4.0 GPA.