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Even though it feels like the winter break has just started, it's going to be time to go back to school before we know it! To prevent being blindsided by the inevitable work that comes with a new semester, here are five things you can do to ensure your best semester yet:
I just started using Google Calendar during the Fall semester, and I have no idea how I ever survived without it! I used it to schedule everything from club meetings to advisor appointments, and I emerged from the semester without a single double-booked or missed event. I highly suggest inputting the semester's classes so that your appointments are always appropriately organized and you never miss a beat!
2. Set goals!
According to numerous studies (such as this one here), specific and challenging goals are proven to improve performance. Set goals for yourself for the semester - I find that it gives me something tangible to work towards and helps me maintain my focus! If you are in need of ideas, you can read about the goals I've set for myself for the Spring here to get you started.
3. Buy new school supplies
Even though a new semester feels kind of weird since you are starting brand new classes whilst everyone in high school and below is continuing their old ones, I see it as just another excuse to invest in more stationery! Nothing gets me more excited for new classes than fresh notebooks and pens. (Pilot G2
pens are my favorite, if you were wondering, haha)4. Start a Bullet Journal!
I have been using a bullet journal since the beginning of the fall semester, and I can honestly say it has improved my productivity during the school year immensely. I find that it's the easiest to set up during a break rather than in the middle of a semester, so this is the perfect time to start! You can use it to record your class schedule, write down your semester goals, or even track your habits. It doesn't have to be anything super fancy; I use a squared soft-cover Moleskine notebook
and just a plain old pencil. (If you'd be interested in a more in-depth post about my personal BuJo, let me know in the comments below!!)5. Spend time with your friends at home
Whenever I go back to school, I miss my friends at different schools immensely, and I'm sure I'm not the only one! Make the time to grab a coffee or lunch with your old friends & catch up on your recent adventures - it's the perfect opportunity to learn about someone else's college experiences and create more memories together.
What are you doing to prepare for the new semester? Let me know in the comments below!
