Ah, spring is coming upon us and we’re still stuck in school. But that’s alright because a new semester means a new start. It’s my second semester of college. It seems crazy to me. I actually survived my first semester! Even though I didn’t do great, now I know some tricks of the trade to get through this upcoming semester!

1. Study incentives.

Studying is not fun, especially when you could be watching Netflix or crying because your life is hard, but I found that setting a certain time to study helped me a lot. So did using food or snacks as a reward. I would eat a gummy bear every time I got a question right.

2. Laundry day.

As time went on I gained a tower of laundry and resorted to wearing my less appealing clothes. All I have to say here is do your laundry at least once every two weeks or so. It’ll be less stressful in the long run.

3. Eat and drink.

Let’s face it, college keeps you busy. But let’s not forget that you’re still human and you need to eat and keep yourself healthy. Try and get to the dining hall at least once a day. This may not sound like a lot but it is when you’re living in your room with popcorn and cliff bars.

4. Personal hygiene.

Getting up an hour earlier to shower sucks. I’ve learned that if you have time during the day that’s not the morning or night, you’re less likely to have to wait for a shower to become open and you feel refreshed and ready for the rest of the day. Just remember to brush your teeth when you wake up. No, it doesn’t save time if you don’t.

5. Keep organized.

If you don’t already have a planner, get one. It’ll be your best friend. Write down everything in that thing and keep it with you. Due dates and assignments. Appointments and meetings. You’ll feel better having everything in one place and it’s an easy way to keep yourself together.

6. Get a part-time job.

Let’s face it, we’re dumb college kids. But keeping ourselves busy when we don’t have class may be beneficial to us. And you get money. I found that having a job helped me to feel more like an adult. And it's nice to be able to buy whatever I want without asking for it.

7. Make time for yourself.

School is more than just important. But remember that you’re important too. Go to that concert on Saturday. Go out to lunch with your friends. Go visit your family back at home. Lay in bed and read a book while drinking tea. Nothing in life is sacred like the time you make for yourself.

It’s a great day to be alive so go out there and make it your own.