The beginning of any new semester is always exciting to any student. Fall semester is a new opportunity to reclaim some of the mistakes you made on spring semester. Each new semester brings a stark realization that free time and sleep are a luxury, and responsibilities seem never-ending. Here are some advices to start this semester on the right foot:
Be prepared We suggest you to take some time to think of any possible obstacle you could run into in your first few weeks, and do everything you can to anticipate the problem. Get supplies before classes begin. You may not know exactly what you’ll need for each class, but an extra notebook or two will certainly not hurt you down the line!
Get a head start The first week of classes, however, is NOT the time to become a procrastinator! Was a term paper or large project assigned on the first day? Take even twenty minutes to get a bit of research done or pick a topic that day. It will make your life a lot easier down the line once other responsibilities have picked up. One great way to get a head start on your work is by simply to define what your work is. For example, if you find out on the first day of class that you have a term project due at the end of the semester, and you only think about it as “the term project,” you’re not likely to get started on it.
Establish a personal routine If you make a conscious effort to decide on and establish this routine from the first day, you will find yourself being much more productive down the line. Routines don’t have to just be specific to when you sleep and wake. Set a routine in your practice schedule, so that from day one, you are used to practicing at a certain time. This will prevent you from being flexible with your practice time down the road because you would rather [insert any other activity] that day.
Set your goals of the semester The beginning of a new semester is a fantastic time to decide on some long-term goals for the coming months. Consider setting goals for yourself in the following categories: School – What do you want to learn in your classes? Extracurricular – Are you involved in a student organization? What do you want to achieve in it? If not, do you want to join one? Professional Development – Are you going to attend any conferences? What do you want to learn outside of the classroom? Personal – What, if any, goals do you have for your personal life?
