Tips for Starting the Semester on the Right Foot
The beginning of a new semester can be exciting- reuniting with old friends, starting new classes, maybe even moving into a new place. It can also be overwhelming. When transitioning from a summer of traveling, working, or doing an internship to a full load of classes, it is essential to take a moment to check yourself to make sure you are going into the new semester with an attitude for success.
Don't let yourself slack off in the first week.
When the first week of classes are filled with introductions and reviewing the syllabus, it can be easy to let yourself check out. The first couple of days can feel repetitive, but that does not mean they are not important. Instead, use this time to set your expectations and goals for the semester. Review the syllabus, write down important due dates, get ahead on readings, and organize your notebook- future you will thank you. Things are going to speed up very quickly, and you can't afford to fall behind.
Introduce yourself
Whether you're an incoming student or finishing off your last semester, take the initiative during the first week to introduce yourself to your professors and classmates. Professors want to help you learn, but you have to meet them in the middle. Instead of waiting until you need something, start developing a relationship right from the start.
People are our most valuable resources, and the first step to developing any relationship is saying hello. In addition to being a great asset now, remember that your current classmates will be your future colleagues and contacts. You never know where your classmates will be in a few years or who might be the connection that lands you your dream job.
Take time to take care of yourself.
This time of year is full of change and opportunity, and it can be easy to let yourself forget that you need to take care of yourself before you can hope to be successful in anything else. Set yourself up to succeed by doing what you need to give yourself a clear head and a fresh start. Get a full nights sleep, drink plenty of water, or take time to meditate or journal. The coming semester is a marathon, not a sprint. Make a conscious effort starting week one to take care of yourself, whatever that means for you.
Look ahead
While it is crucial to be fully present at the beginning of the semester, this is also the time to be considering what you want to be doing next. Do you want to get involved in a new student organization? Take on more responsibility? Apply for an internship? Set your goals for the semester right from the start and then stick to them.
It takes a moment to get back in the swing of things. However, staying on top of your classes, getting to know people, taking time for yourself, and thinking about the semester as a whole can help set you up for a productive semester and year.
About Christine
Christine Davis is a senior at GVSU studying advertising and public relations with an emphasis in PR and a minor in political science. She loves Grand Rapids and spending time with her friends, and she is excited to serve as GrandPR’s firm editor this upcoming year.