Winter break is over, which means spring semester is upon us. Note taking, essays, staying up late to study for exams and a stress-level that is through the roof. Most people are dreading the start of fresh classes and a new semester, however, there are some things to look forward to and things to remember that will make the upcoming semester look less daunting.

You only have a couple months until spring break. You get an entire week away from school and you can either go on vacation, go home or just stay in your college town but at least you aren't going to class.

Less than five months until it is summer. Can you say beach, poolside, road trips, warm weather and three months away from assignments? It might seem like the semester is never-ending but believe me, it is going to come to an end faster than you think.

C's get degrees. Even some D's get degrees. Obviously, you want to shoot for A's but keep in mind that it is okay if you don't do super well on all your assignments. It's called college and it's called learning. You are not a professional yet, so do not freak out if you didn't get an A. Learn what you did wrong and work harder on the next exam, essay or assignment.

Take some time for yourself and friends. Remember to not let classes and the stress of school take over your life. Set aside some time for yourself and your friends. It is healthy to go out and have fun. Do not always sit in your room re-reading notes for the hundredth time.

It is all worth it in the end. All the stress, all the time you spend studying, all the late nights and sacrifices you make is all worth it in the end because you'll feel great getting amazing grades and finishing off your year strong. For a lot of people, this semester will be hard, demanding, and overwhelming but it is important to remember that it is all worth it and it will all pay off.

Stay calm. Stressing out and becoming overwhelmed will not do anything. It will only make things worse for you. Staying calm and relaxed is a much healthier and happier approach.

Don't procrastinate. Easier said than done, I understand, but you are adding more stress to yourself by waiting until the night before or even a few hours before your assignment is due. Get it done early and will take a weight off your shoulders.

Have fun. This goes along with taking time for yourself. You can't get too caught up in the stresses of college. It is important to maintain some fun, whatever your definition of fun is, and having fun will make the learning and difficulties seem easier.

This semester will go a lot faster than you really think so take it all in and take it all one step at a time. Bring on spring semester!