It's been a little while since we rang in the new year and made our resolutions. Now, we're commemorating the start of a new semester. Why kick them off any differently? Use these tips for success to decide on a new semester's resolution for yourself.

1. Challenge Yourself

The purpose of education is to expand your mind. If you're not at least a little uncomfortable, you won't grow.

2. Take a Class that Speaks to Your Soul

Don't be afraid to branch out and explore classes outside your major. If it really interests you, it's probably worth it to treat yourself to a class you know you'll enjoy.

3. Read the Syllabi

It's always good to know the attendance policies, required materials, and nature of the work load of a course so that you can decide whether or not you should drop it. There's no shame in getting out of a class you don't think you can handle.

4. Make Friends in Each Class

Getting to know people in your classes has many advantages. In addition to confirming questions about assignments and exams, you can get together to study, which brings me to my next point.

5. Study in Groups

My cousin once told me that when you study alone, you're always right. Therefore, it's a good idea to study with others so that you can check your answers and prepare more effectively.

6. Email Etiquette

Be sure to keep emails to professors and teaching assistants professional. Make sure to proofread and avoid casual speech so that you don't end up embarrassed (and so your professor or TA actually responds).

7. Attend Class

Depending on your professor's policies, missing too many classes can seriously harm your grade. On top of attending, it's important to actively participate, especially in smaller classes.

8. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Seeking help in the form of tutoring is totally fine; it doesn't mean you aren't smart or capable. In fact, getting someone who knows the material to help you understand it is very smart. Make sure you get help sooner rather than later because chances are that the work will only continue to pile on.

9. Join Clubs

Take a break from academics and indulge in some clubs. You'll meet people with common interests while simultaneously building up your résumé.

10. Get Good Rest

Sleep is very important for academic achievement as mental clarity, memory retention, and focus depend heavily on the amount and quality of sleep you get. It's also good for keeping stress levels down, but do you really need a reason to get that extra sleep all students crave?

11. Get to Know Your Professors

If you form relationships with at least one professor per semester, by the time you graduate, you'll have eight people to call on for letters of recommendation. Plus, professors are generally cool, knowledgeable, helpful people whose wisdom you should take advantage of.

12. Take Care of Yourself

Always make health your first priority. Make sure your body is taken care of, which means eating well and avoiding too many all-nighters. Additionally, try to be aware of what you can and can't do; don't push yourself past mental wellness.

In conclusion...

Though they are all significant, try to adopt one of these 12 keys to success to make this new semester a great one. A successful semester depends on many different factors, but instead of getting overwhelmed trying to make everything perfect, focus on one or two things you really want to improve and your spring semester is bound to be exceptional.