As the first semester of my sophomore year quickly approaches, there are a lot of changes that I'd like to make. While my freshman year was a great one, I know my sophomore year can be even better. Why wait until January 1 to make changes to your life, right? I have so many goals and aspirations that I intend to meet -- if you are also starting a new semester, I'm sure you do as well!

Every time there is a change in my life, I go through several phases of emotion. First, there is excitement to be starting something new. Then, anxiety overwhelms me as I begin to realize the things that will need to be done to accommodate said change. In order to soothe the anxiety, I make numerous lists and charts to organize the thousands of thoughts that are parading through my mind. Coming into this new semester, I have experienced excitement, stress and anxiety all at the same time thinking about the new classes I'll be taking, clubs I'll be joining and friends I'll be making. My goal for this area of my life is to spend more time doing things that I enjoy so that I have less time to stress about and over-think things. A good way to fulfill this goal is to spend more time outside enjoying nature, at the gym relieving tension and with my friends having the best time of my life.

On a related note, another goal I have for this semester is to be more involved on campus. If you are reading this and are a freshman, heed my words! Being involved is one of the best things you can do as a college student. Not only does it make you more well-rounded, but you also get much more out of your college experience and make life-long friends in the process.

Moving onto my next goal, I have to express the importance of studying. While college is the best four years of your life, you have to keep in mind what you are truly there for -- to get an education. My freshman year I had a good GPA, but good isn't good enough. This semester I am striving for a 4.0 and will not settle for less. This means more hours in the library, staying in on some nights and sacrificing having a job and some aspects of my social life to make time for studying. Although that may not sound like the most appealing idea, it is so important to be dedicated to your education.

The last goal that I have in mind is to keep myself in shape by going to the gym at least four times a week. Being in good physical health is very important for overall well being, and can also help with study habits. I never eat as healthy at school as I do at home, so it's important to keep in shape during the time that I'm away.

Embarking on a new semester is one of the most exciting things I have ever done, and I am looking forward to meeting each goal that I have right now and make along the way. Enjoy the ride!