As the new semester kicks off, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with new classes and expectations. With a little planning and a proactive mindset, you can set yourself for success. Here are some suggestions to help you begin with a good start and get the most out of your academic experience.
One of the easiest ways to stay on track is to manage your time well and develop a schedule. Many college students find themselves with more free time than they did in high school. Of course, unstructured time and free time are not the same, and learning how to build structure for oneself might take patience and commitment.
Using a calendar or some sort of organized way to keep track of assignment due dates, tests and quizzes is essential in order to meet deadlines and be better prepared. The first week of classes, or “syllabus week” is often seen as a break for students, being an easy week with the professors usually just reading the syllabus.
During this period, it is important to review and familiarize yourself with your course outlines and organize a monthly calendar detailing the due dates for exams and assignments for better preparedness and so time doesn’t catch up to you. Along with a monthly calendar to lay out what you know you have to study, it is good to have a weekly calendar with your class schedule so you know when you will have the time to do homework, eat, workout, and any other daily tasks. Establishing a daily routine builds better habits and ensures you have enough time for other activities and relaxation.
Practice good self-care by making sure you get enough sleep and eat a nutritious diet. Consistency is key when establishing a healthy sleep schedule. It might take time for your body to adjust but sticking to a routine can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Finding a balance between academic, social, and personal responsibilities while also prioritizing sleep is essential for college students to thrive both academically and personally throughout the semester.
To gain a better insight on what Suny Cortland students are doing to succeed at the start of the semester, I conducted an anonymous survey among fellow classmates about their tips and strategies for tackling a new semester. This survey consisted of three short answer questions.
What is one tip you could give to starting off the semester on the right foot?
- “Show up to class early and prepared.”
- “Set clear and realistic goals for the semester.”
- “Invest in a planner to manage your time well.”
- “Have a place to take notes in for all classes, and get folders to organize.”
- “Find a routine that works for you.”
What is one study tip you enjoy using?
- “Re-writing my notes.”
- “Organize what you need to study from hardest to easiest, so you don’t stress yourself out.”
- “Use Quizlet plus!”
- “I study in short, focused time periods rather than long hours.”
- “I space my study guide out over the week to reduce last minute cramming.”
What is something you regret not doing earlier in the school year?
- “I regret not taking advantage of the library and all of the resources.”
- “I regret not paying attention in class and taking notes.”
- “I regret not organizing my notes from the beginning of class-I should have worked on my time management sooner, I spend way too much time procrastinating.”
- “I regret not having a daily routine sooner, I feel more energized and focused throughout the day.”
These responses all reflect a common theme: the more proactive you are in the beginning of the semester, the better prepared and ready you will be to have a smooth semester ahead!