This is going to be the year that we overcome the most difficult part of school and life in general: procrastination. Okay, I will admit it, I have not been the greatest at keeping the non-procrastination streak strong, but this year is going to be different, I know (hopefully). Below are some steps on how to start off on the right foot.

Step 1: The "Home"

Everything starts at the shelter you will be calling home this year. Whether it be an apartment, house, or residence hall, do not neglect it. Keep it clean. This does not mean shove as many pairs of dirty socks under the bed so the cute boy who is coming over won't know. This means, wipe of the surfaces daily, dust weekly, have a laundry hamper, make your bed, organize your items, and get rid of things you don't need. Having a clean and tidy living area will make a world of a difference when getting ready for class and your day.

Step 2: The Agenda

Agendas save lives. Get one, now. Get a cute one so you don't mind carrying it around or pulling it out in class. It is important to keep it on you as often as you can and to actually use it. Don't think you have to put only school information in there, to tell you the truth, I usually use mine to plan concerts but homework is always in there.

Step 3: The Homework

First week of classes are usually pretty easy on the homework because just like us, the professors are slowing getting use to the scheduled days again. Use this to your advantage. Get as much stuff as you can get done in the beginning of the week so that when Friday rolls around, you don't have to beg your friends to wait until midnight to go out. I know that it's exciting to be with your friends again but trust me, getting everything done will be worth it (all of the fun stuff happens on the weekend anyway).

Step 4: Say No Sometimes

I am a firm believer that college isn't just about getting a degree, it's also about meeting new people and having fun. But you must remember, you wouldn't be experiencing college if it wasn't for school. Make sure to spend time in the library and at your local coffee shop studying, even if that means missing out on going to the movies or a show downtown. If you say no once in a while, you won't fall behind or be overexerted when you do go do fun things with your friends. Don't let people guilt you into putting other things over school because those are the people whole will be dropping out next semester anyway.