Everyone's always looking forward to syllabus week—the time to get together with college friends after being three months apart on summer break. It's what you call the golden era of a semester—the prime time for being well-rested and stress-free.

1. Expectation: No homework.

Reality: Read three chapters, take two quizzes, and write one paper...by day four.

2. Expectation: Starting the year off strong by hitting up the gym.

Reality: The walk back to your dorm is a workout in itself.

3. Expectation: Being organized and taking strategic notes in class.

Reality: Doodling, daydreaming..."Can I borrow paper?"

4. Expectation: Get a full 8 hours of sleep and abiding by "early bird gets the worm."

Reality: Snoozing alarms and frequent naps.

5. Expectation: Pick apart the syllabus and leave class 30 minutes early.

Reality: "Read the syllabus on your own time" *uses full 50 minutes to lecture*

6. Expectation: Joining every organization that catches your eye.

Reality: Realizing every club meets at the same time and being flooded with emails.

In reality, the year will only be as great as you make it. Expect less, do more. Happy school year, everyone!