With syllabus week and Labor Day weekend behind us, it is time to settle down and focus on all the homework we didn't do this weekend. This week is a good time to figure out exactly what books you need so you can do all the lengthy reading assignments (Or not, your choice). This year my friends and I are determined to stay super motivated and do well in all our classes. I usually tend to do well in my classes, but not without a long battle against procrastination which is something I want to change this semester. I figured if I shared with you guys my plans I could hold myself a little more accountable to my goals.

1. Get a planner/assignment book

My life depends on this. Since third grade my planners have dictated if and when I can do something. Now that my life is more hectic, it's easy to forget if you have homework, made plans with someone, or literally anything anything else that runs through your mind. I sit down with the each class syllabus and write down all the important dates in my calendar. After that, I go to that specific date and write it down again. After every class I write down the homework, if any. I also include my work schedule and any meetings I may have during the week as well.

2. Do homework the day it is assigned

My mom instilled this into my when I was a child. I was not allowed to go play outside with everyone until all my homework was complete. However, I did not take this mentality with me to college. Since my classes aren't every day I did not see why I had to do homework right away when it was not due for another two days. Big mistake. Last year I wound up being overwhelmed with hours of homework to do. Plan to do your homework the day it's assigned and you'll thank yourself later.

3. Don't do homework in bed

When you lay in bed you're more likely to fall asleep even if you tell yourself it's only going to be a short nap. Three hours later you finally wake up and have to do hours of homework. Or you'll take a nap even though you know you have to get your Odyssey article in like I did. Most dorm rooms come with a desk so utilize that.

4. Do homework with friends

If you don't like the idea of sitting at a desk to study, round up your friends and head to the library. Most stay open pretty late so you can get your studying done even if your day is packed with activities. My friends and I usually make dinner together and then head to a study room on my floor or to one in the library. Sometimes it's easier to stay focused and finish your homework when your with others because then you can gloat that you're done while your friends still has another hour ahead of him.

5. Ask for help

Visit your professors during office hours to ask questions. Ask what the appropriate way to study would be. Ask for extra work if you're struggling to understand a concept. Book an appointment with a tutor. People learn in all different ways so sometimes you just need a different viewpoint.

6. Try your best

If all else fails, I am just going to remember to give it my all. If I'm putting the time and effort into studying and I still can't wrap my head around a concept I'm just going to accept that. One bad test or homework grade won't kill your overall grade. You'll just have to do better next time!

I'm excited to see how well the semester goes. The next couple months hold a lot of hope and possibilities for me and I hope this semester goes just as well for all of you.