As the beginning of the school year rapidly approaches, it is important to be prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally. Stress is for finals week, but not for the first few months of the academic year, which should be fun, exciting, and relaxing. For those who have taken summer classes or completed a challenging job or internship, it is enticing to burn out before the fall semester starts, but abstaining from the temptation is the key to a successful year. Although some people are by-the-book list makers and others work through procrastination and mental notes, it is a good idea for everyone to start the year on the right foot by taking care of a few simple chores in order to have the best year possible.
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1. Make lists.
Again, some people hate making lists, but everyone should invest in a planner. The next step is to use the planner in a way that is personally effective. Whether it’s for daily tasks or packing, lists are a great way to quantify progress. I often give myself goals or tasks that I know I can do easily just to get the satisfaction of crossing an obligation off the list. Using the calendar on a cell phone or voice memo reminders are other alternatives that ensure an easier packing and move-in process for the start of the year.
2. Organize.
Nothing suggests a bad starting point like a box full of miscellaneous items from last year. Five minutes spent looking through old items and separating them into different boxes may save an hour on move-in day. Also, assessing what you have and what you need for the year before you move in is a good way to avoid the chaos of Target and Bed, Bath, and Beyond on move-in day.
3. Reach out to friends.
Though it’s common to keep in touch with your best friends throughout the summer, there are always a few friends who are away all summer or just temporarily lose touch due to distance. Texting or getting in touch with those friends before school to catch up is a great way to show you’ve been thinking about them. If you get all of the necessary catch-up questions out of the way over the phone, you can pick up in August exactly where you left off in May.
4. Get reacquainted with school.
This suggestion is sometimes the hardest because although we may be ready to head back to campus and hang out with our friends, the “school” part of college is not on our minds. The beginning of the school year is an important time to read syllabi and print them out so you know what is happening in your classes. Buying textbooks earlier is also better, and websites like Chegg and Amazon make it easy to find great prices on books, but the more proactive you are in checking off that part of your school to-do list, the less stress will be present in the first few weeks of classes. Also, taking care of any bills and other obligations will guarantee an easier transition into the year.
Fall is an exciting time for students because it means starting fresh and making new memories. Unwanted stress at the beginning is easy to avoid if you take care of certain requirements and stay organized. College is supposed to be educational, but also lively and enjoyable. We all have different ways of preparing ourselves for the year, but I know that the more time spent on planning leads to more relaxation when you get to school.
