At the begging of every semester, I always make the same vow to myself that I will stay on top of all of my schoolwork. Needless to say, as the semester gets into full swing (aka week two of the semester), I invariably become more and more behind in my classes, skipping a reading or five here and waiting to do my homework until the last possible second there. By the end of the semester, I promise that next semester will be different.

Well, it's seven semesters later, and I’m still making the same vow, hoping that I will actually keep it this time around. I have come to the conclusion that it’s not that my intention is faulty or my execution (we all know the miraculous amount of stress Wake places upon us), but my pre-planning for the semester is what’s failing me. If you’re like me, you may need some tips on how to actually keep this promise. With this in mind, I have come up with a list of actions to take before the semester even gets underway.

I know what you are thinking: “Why would I ever want to get ready for next semester while I’m on my break?” It's a valid question, and I’m thinking it myself, but keep this in mind, “failing to plan is planning to fail.” Without further ado, here are some ideas to keep you on top of the ball of next semester.

1. Order and get all of your books a few days before classes. I recommend renting books from Amazon; it’s the cheapest option by far and will get to you in two days if you are a Prime member. This will help you keep on top of all of your assignments as the semester gets rolling.

2. Check for course syllabi on Sakai before classes start — this way, you can be prepared for syllabus week and you know what to expect. You can note in a calendar what days you may have exams or big assignments due. Maybe get a little wild, and start some reading early!

3. Check out your professors online. This way, you can expect what their teaching style is like, if they’re a stickler for attendance or how much they value participation. These small details could be the difference for you getting a B+ or an A-. I recommend going on Rate My Professors or Wake Ratings to check your professors out.

4. Buy your notebooks, pens, binders, etc. before school starts. The bookstore seriously overcharges for notebooks and is seemingly always out of what you need as the semester kicks off, so buying what you need ahead of time saves you money and not to mention the time going back and forth to the bookstore trying to buy what you need.

5. As the semester gets going, don’t worry if you get a little off balance or get behind in your work. In the words of Dory, “Just keep swimming” and you’ll get through it. Give yourself some leeway to get off track — It happens to everyone!