As the Christmas season comes to an end and winter break starts winding down, students everywhere start to dread returning to school for the spring semester. The end of winter break is a stressful time, but here are a few ways to make your return to campus a little easier:

Plan

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Using a planner or schedule book can make school a lot easier, so consider taking some time to write down important dates down in your planner, if you don't have a planner or schedule book, consider treating yourself to a nice one. You could even schedule in finals week, so you know ahead of time. Planning when you will pick up your textbooks and writing down some important dates ahead of time can help you remember all of the things that happen in the beginning of the semester and throughout the year.

Gather School Supplies

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Unless you keep tons of supplies in your dorm at all times, you'll probably have to purchase some new notebooks and binders for your courses. Consider also stocking up on pens and pencils so you don't find yourself in a tight spot when you go back. It's best to gather supplies now, so you don't have to stress about it when you get back to school.

Reconnect With Old Friends

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Make sure you spend some time with friends from high school, to replenish your spirits and catch up with what everyone has been up to. Your friends can help ease your worries about your gpa and loans, as well as give advice or study tips for the upcoming semester.

Get Your Finances in Order

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Make sure you have enough money to pay for books and tuition, and apply for loans if need be. If your parents help you pay for school make sure you talk to them about finances for the spring semester.

Dig Out Your Winter Coat and Accessories

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Unless you go to school somewhere tropical and sunny- in which case, I'm jealous- you'll want to make sure you have a nice, warm coat in your dorm. If you haven't needed your heavy coat, gloves, or hat yet, you should dig them out so you stay warm while walking between classes. If you go to school somewhere where it could snow, make sure you bring some snow boots!

Find Your Books Ahead of Time

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If you don't want to spend a fortune on books, consider finding your textbooks on Amazon or other bargain rental sites, so you can avoid shelling out hundreds at your campus bookstore. Consider also checking with friends to see if they already have some of the books you need.

Mentally Prepare

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Rates of depression and anxiety can rise in the winter months, and the stress of a new semester can worsen symptoms, so take some time to relax and mentally prepare yourself for the semester, so you don't find yourself overloaded with stress.

Having to go back to school after weeks of relaxation sucks, but a little preparation can really help in the long run.