5 Ways to Slay a Semester

By: Giulianna Rubi

Figuring out how to balance school along with other obligations can be both challenging and overwhelming. If you’re a first year student hopefully these tips save you some stress. However, even if you’re starting your last year at college it’s never too late to get organized!

1. Develop a Routine
Something that can really make a difference in not only your education but your personal life as well is creating a routine for yourself during the semester. As boring as a routine may sound, having one can maximize your productivity and give you more free time…that is if you stick to it. Look at your work schedule and obligations for the week and take note of the days and times you have free for schoolwork and studying. You might find that you already have somewhat of a routine but you’re just not using your time effectively. 

2. Use a Planner
Start the semester off by reviewing all your syllabi and writing down key dates like exams and due dates. Get in the habit of checking your planner weekly and seeing if there’s an important paper or project due the following week that you should start working on. It might seem overwhelming planning for a semester, but there are many benefits and key steps you can follow that will make the planning process easier. 

3. Don’t Procrastinate
This is the most obvious tip, but one that every college student tends to struggle with the most. If you have a planner you’re already one step ahead! Write down reminders to work on a paper/project a week or two weeks in advance before it’s due. This will give you enough time to finish and fix any errors that you might not have caught had you been working on it at 2 a.m. the night before it was due! 

4. Learn to Say No
I’m sure most can remember a time they accepted an invitation when they actually should have been studying. Acknowledging when an assignment can or can’t wait will not only save you stress but will make a difference in your final grade. 

5. Give Yourself a Break
As important as getting good grades is, so is your mental health. Balancing school, work, family, and a social life can get tough so give yourself time to recharge. If possible, plan for a day once a week where you don’t have to work on any schoolwork. This will leave you rested and motivated for the week ahead!
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Remember, no one is perfect and slip ups are bound to happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely fall off track. While following these tips might take some getting used to, you’ll see just how much you can accomplish. Best of luck!
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