Hey everybody! With the first semester coming into a full start, many of you are probably feeling just a bit overwhelmed. Between classes, quizzes, meetings, homework, activities, social events and everything in between, you might be feeling like you have a ton on your plate- and you probably do! However, the key to keeping calm and being successful is organization and balance. If you stay organized from the start, your schedule will be planned out, and this will make you more likely to succeed and be less stressed through the semester! I am going to share five tips that I, personally, have found to be helpful in keeping me on track.
1. Get a planner.
I remember in seventh grade when I was required by the school system to use a planner and I thought it was extremely lame. Now my planner is constantly within my reach. I start off each new week by penciling in my classes, work hours and meeting times. I'll also usually write in any personal plans I have with friends or the like. This way, I know where I'll be each day and at what time. Then, I write in my assignments due for each day, quiz/exam dates, and a to-do list. When I know how busy I'll be during the day, I know what times I can plan to sit down and study or do homework so I don't fall behind. Having my entire schedule in front of me each day makes my life so much easier! I don't forget about assignments or miss meetings and I keep high grades because I know how much time I have to study for tests.
2. Use a calender.
I have a dry-erase calender that I keep on the wall above my desk. The calender has all the same information that my planner does, but it keeps me in check because it's always in my view. I have to look at this every day, and it makes me remember everything so well.
3. Talk to your professors.
A wise teacher I had in high school once told me that simply stopping by your professors office hours, even once just to say hello, will benefit you greatly. Thus far, he has yet to be wrong. Doing this makes the professor remember you and it also shows that you care about your grade and the class (even if it's not your favorite). If you have just a simple question, drop by their office and ask. Seeing your face is so much more personal than seeing an email address pop up on the screen. Making a good impression from the start is key.
4. Ask for help.
If you are a student that happens to have a lot on your plate, you might become entirely too stressed out. If you feel like you need to talk, vent, need a study buddy, or just want someone who can help you feel more prepared (anything at all), there are people you can turn to. Your CAs are always just a few doors away and will be more than willing to do what they can to help you out. Your ASMs are always here to provide you with solutions. We have many resources and techniques to help you with any problems that you may be facing. And it's not just limited to the people in your residence community. IUP has a great counseling center for people who are feeling especially in need. Don't forget your friends and family too! A simple call to home or a talk with a friend may be just the thing you need.
5. Don't forget to have fun.
While college is about gaining the education you need to have a successful future, its also about having some fun, meeting new people, and creating new experiences. Don't forget that if you work hard, you deserve a little break. Credit yourself! Go have some fun with friends, go to the programs in your residence halls, go check out whats happening on campus. It's important to balance your personal life and school life so you can be educated and have some good times along the way!
I hope you will find these things helpful as you go through the first semester. Don't forget that your ASM office is located on the ground floor of Suites on Pratt (office G6) and we are always at your reach! Enjoy your semester, and don't forget ASM Sam and ASM Chelsie want to see all your lovely faces!
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