I know how you feel right now, anxiously waiting for the new school year/first day of college to start, counting down the last few days or eagerly waiting to move back into the dorms. I've been feeling that way since the 4th of July. I desperately wanted to start fresh since my freshman year in college seemed shaky.

I always look forward to starting fresh during the new school year. Especially after I graduated from high school, I wanted to start over. I was eager to get right to my graduation, ready to skip right to freshman orientation, and eventually to rush right into my first day of classes. I wanted to go from the quiet girl, who barely knew anyone; to the somebody that everyone knows.

My freshman year of college was a shaky one. I met a few new people, got involved as a student ambassador, and managed to get a decent GPA for my first year. But there is room for improvement. I got roped into some drama with the group of friends I was around, and it caused so much stress for me. Being stuck in the middle between friends whenever an issue occurs is VERY stressful, especially when your balancing school, work. That's the last thing you need adding fuel to the fire is drama.

Another thing, that was a bit of a challenge for me was my classes. Some of them were very challenging, and some of them were very easy. I managed to get a 2.76 my fall semester and go up by .4 points for the spring getting a 2.80. That's not bad for starting your first year of college, but it could be better. By the time I want to get a 4.0. If my mom can manage to go back to school, work full time, take care of 3 kids, and manage to get a 4.0 for a whole semester then I can too!

Here are a few things you could do to make sure your brand school year is a great one:

1. Set Some Goals

Think of this as a New Year's Resolution, but the only difference is that you ACTUALLY stick to your goal(s)! For example, my goals this year is:

- Meet new people/make new friends.

- Stay out of any drama.

- Get at least 3.0, and make the Dean's List.

- Get involved in some clubs mainly the TV Studio/Radio Station and Student Government.

2. Challenge Yourself

I'm planning on taking six classes this year and taking summer classes this year to get ahead and hopefully graduate early. Take a class you know will be a bit difficult for you. Don't always take the easy way out!

3. Change Your Look

Change your wardrobe, cut your hair, experiment with makeup, dye your hair, get a piercing, do whatever pleases you! A new look can definitely get one foot out the door when it comes to starting fresh.

4. Make New Friends

Sit next to someone you don't know in class, stick out your hand and say hello. Making new friends is also a great way to start fresh. Make new friends, but keep the old!

5. Try A New Club/Activity

Joining a new club or sport will be a great way to try something new and to meet new people!

Do everything you can to make this school year a great one! Do whatever it takes to make this year a great one!