The start of school is the most dreaded time of the year. Getting acquainted to waking up at the crack of dawn and relearning how to hold a pencil is in full swing. As you are receiving your new schedule for the upcoming academic year, all of your school time worries start to come back. Is my best friend in my class? Why didn’t I get the good teacher? Why did I procrastinate this long on my summer homework? Yes, we all know that hitting the books after two months of hitting the waves can be challenging. Here are a few tips on how to make this year a successful one:

1. Make a good first impression- I know that this may sound cheesy, but first impressions really are extremely important. On the first day of class, sit at the front of the class. Be alert and attentive. Your new teacher will take a liking to you if you seem interested. Do not be that talkative kid on the first day of school that is disruptive when your teacher is trying to go over their pointless syllabus. If you leave a good first impression, chances are your teacher will be more willing in the long run to help you out (aka, GPA boosts and college recommendation letters).
2. Eat a good breakfast- Yes, waking up early for school is difficult, but it is imperative that you make sure that you eat a well-balanced breakfast before heading off to the bus. You will be able to focus more, causing greater success in the classroom! Also, think about it from a new perspective - how distracting is it to be taking a silent test when you begin to hear growling from the stomach of the guy next to you. Super distracting, right?
3. Plan ahead- I cannot stress this enough. I know keeping a daily planner can seem a bit lame, but it really works. Use your planner to give yourself reminders on all the homework that your teachers may give you. Also, it can be extremely useful to take note on when your next test is to give yourself ample time to study instead of cramming the night before (yes, we all do this). By planning ahead and studying for a few minutes every night, your sleep cycle will later thank you.
4. Save the easiest for last- This tip will definitely save you from a late night melt down (or maybe just make it occur earlier). When starting your homework, attempt to do the hardest assignment first. By tackling the hardest work when your most focused, you will eliminate the I-am-stressed-and-tired midnight freak out. Once it’s off your plate, you will be able to breeze through the easier stuff.
5. HAVE FUN!- It may not seem like it, but your high school years are supposed to be the best years of your life. Studying is extremely important, though it should not consume all of your time. Put yourself out there - join clubs and be outgoing!