August coming to an end indicates two things: (1) Summer is basically over and (2) School is about to begin--the last two things we want to hear. As much as we dread hearing those words, it's time to face the inevitable.
The semester immediately following summer always seems to be the hardest to get back into. Odds are you've spent the last three months working, laying in the sun, staying out late with friends, etc. Perhaps the only time you've put a pen to paper this summer was to sign the receipt for the three glasses of wine you just ordered. I think we could all use a few tips and tricks to help ease back into the stressful swing of the fall semester. Here are a few pointers that always seem to help me start off the semester strong:
1. Buy a planner.
This is crucial for me. It helps when I can see everything I need to do for the week in one spot. I always keep my planner out in each class so I can easily write out important due dates/test dates.
2. Print out all the syllabi the first week.
While you can access them online, I find it easier to have a paper copy to access in class in case I don't have my laptop on me.
3. Go through each syllabus and highlight important dates.
For any quiz, exam, project or important assignment due, highlight it. Do this the first week of classes so you have a heads up for the rest of the semester. Coming from someone who foolishly missed an exam last semester, I implore you to do this.
4. Write down each of these dates in your planner (color-code if you're feeling ambitious).
By working ahead in your planner and marking down all the important dates for the rest of the semester, it makes it easier to plan out studying time or a project that may take longer to complete.
5. Buy a calendar to hang on your wall in your room.
Do the same thing you would with the planner, but plan out the month. Mark down those same due dates. It's good to have a visible reminder right in front of you.
6. Buy a small, one-subject notebook for each class.
This is really all you need for one semester of a class. I've tried using the big three-subject notebook and I always felt unorganized having multiple classes meshed together in one notebook. I prefer having one notebook for one class.
7. Buy a folder with multiple pockets.
OfficeMax/Office Depot carries these. I buy one folder with 8 different pockets so I can organize all my important handouts in one folder.
8. Pay attention in class.
As painful as it is, try and listen to what the professor is saying so that when you go back to reference the information when studying it's nothing new.
9. Go to bed early.
This will definitely make it easier to pay attention in class, and your brain functions better when you've had a good night's sleep.
10. Make a friend in class.
No, this doesn't have to be a "best friend", but make conversation and get to know someone well enough to exchange numbers in case you have any questions about an assignment or confusing due date.
11. Take notes.
If you hear something important, write it down. Writing things down helps me remember things as opposed to trying to read and memorize. Sign up to be a class note-taker if the opportunity presents itself. I did it last semester and it was the best thing for me. It required me to take notes that ultimately benefited me, and I was getting paid to do it.
12. Dedicate certain time periods for homework and studying.
Maybe you have a break between classes or you prefer doing work in the morning in case your classes start late. Set aside an hour at a time to get some work done. Don't forget to take a few short breaks so you don't wear yourself out.
13. Put away all electronics while studying or doing homework.
The phone is really what I'm talking about here. Put your phone in another room so you aren't tempted to check social media. If you need your laptop, prevent yourself from opening unnecessary tabs that cause a distraction.
14. Finally, make time for yourself.
Do not stress yourself out too much. You've gotten through every other semester, and you will get through this one. Never forget to dedicate a little time now and then to doing something you enjoy. Reward yourself for finishing an assignment or taking an exam.
Let's make this fall semester a productive one.
