By this time, most colleges are beginning the next semester (or have already started), and with that comes "syllabus week." Whether this is your first semester, or your last semester, here are a few hacks to help the first week of classes go by a little more smoothly.
1. Buy (Or Rent) Your Books A Few Weeks Early
This semester I thought, "hey, it'll be fine if I wait till the last minute to buy my textbooks," but boy, was I wrong. Because I waited till the last minute, I ended up buying my textbooks from the campus store, which means they were more expensive than if I were to have ordered them online. But not only that, waiting till the last minute means that sometimes the books you need are back ordered. Which means you're not as well-prepared for your classes (or your first day) as you could be. I know some people recommend waiting until after the first week to buy your books in case you decide to drop the class or find out you "won't really need them," but that can cause unnecessary stress. By unnecessary stress I mean, not only could your books be back ordered, but you'll be behind on reading, and possibly homework too. It can just make you feel unprepared all around.
2. Plan Your Outfit The Night Before
This will save you some extra time so you aren't rushing out the door, especially if you have an 8 a.m. Also, those classrooms can get a bit chilly, so be sure to wear or pack an extra layer!
3...And Pack Some Snacks Too!
Because you never know when hunger will strike... and the last thing you want is your stomach growling like an angry walrus. Plus, it's always a good idea to carry water with you, because as they're always telling us, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! I know it makes your bag a little heavier, but believe me, it's worth it.
4. Make Sure You Have All The Supplies You'll Need (Preferably The Day Before)
4 pounds of paper? Check. Pencils? Check. Pens because you hate writing with pencils, but know you have to use them? Check. 4x6 note cards? Check. Planner? Check.
Of course, there's the chance that you'll have to run out and grab something that you didn't know you needed, but at least you don't have to get all of Kansas City while you're there.
5. Set Your Alarm To Allow You Plenty of Time To Get Ready And Out The Door
You know how long it's going to take you to get ready, so maybe give yourself an additional fifteen minutes to get ready. I'm sure you'd love to be sleeping during that time, but giving yourself an extra cushion will help alleviate some stress, simply because you won't feel quite as rushed! Plus it'll give you a bit more time to maybe sit down and drink some coffee or tea, and you definitely can't go wrong there!
All in all, syllabus week really isn't that bad, so believe me when I tell you that you're definitely going to make it out alive! Even still, hopefully, these tips will make it even easier! :)
