As the new semester kicks off, it’s easy to tell yourself, “This time, things will be different.” Much like you do around New Year’s, you set goals. Maybe you made an ambitious goal like not failing that math class you’ve been dreading all summer, and promised yourself you’d keep up with the reading or vowed to do self-care so you won’t burn out.
Whether you are a freshman trying to figure out college or a senior trying to power your way through to the end of the tunnel, here are some tips to help you crush your semester.
1. Set measurable and realistic goals for yourself
Whether you’re maintaining a certain GPA, improving your study habits or participating in clubs and other activities around campus, having clear goals can help you stay focused and thrive throughout the semester.
Madi Wawrzyniak, an associate academic advisor for general education and student success, said, “Breaking down long-term goals into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrating milestones is one way to stay motivated.”
Goals can be the building blocks of success; when you do them right, you’ll be unstoppable.
2. Look at the syllabus before classes start
A syllabus is a great place to look and see what items you will need for the class, how much homework you can expect and any general information.
Alex Cutler, a senior software engineering major from St. George and tutor for the Academic Performance Center, said, “I prepare for the upcoming semester by looking at the syllabus and buying the textbooks I will need.”
Cutler said that he also buys any other supplies he may need. Looking at the syllabus can give you insights into how the course will be run and give you your professor’s contact information in case you have questions before the start of the semester.
3. Utilize campus resources
Utah Tech University offers many resources that can help you power through your next assignment or even help you understand your homework better when you’re questioning how to do it.
“Students can utilize tutoring services to help with challenging subjects or enhance their understanding of course material,” said Wawrzyniak. “Students can visit the Academic Performance Center, math lab or the Writing Center to get help with assignments.”
Lexi Carroll, a junior media studies major from Moab, said: “I have found the most helpful resource on campus to be the library. It helps give me a change of environment when I need to study and stay focused, or when there’s a group assignment/project, we can meet there instead of going to someone’s apartment with roommates and other distractions.”
4. Set more time aside for the more challenging classes
Not every class you take will be easy. There will be classes here and there that you’ll take that are difficult, and that’s when you’ll want to set aside extra time to study or plan how to approach that class.
“I approach difficult classes or challenging material by reaching out to my classmates or other students who I know took the class, and see if they can help me study,” said Cutler. “I also set more time aside to chunk the material up into parts so that way I can take breaks.”
5. Create a balanced schedule
Maintaining a balance between personal time and academic pursuits is important when wanting a successful semester. It’s important to manage your time so that your school schedule doesn’t overwhelm your free time, and likewise, your free time doesn’t take over your study time and class attendance.
Having a balanced schedule helps give you time to be social while allowing you to study or complete assigned readings.
“I maintain a healthy balance between my academic and social life by keeping my academic struggles between me, my classmates and my professors,” Carroll said. “I try not to complain about my exams/assignments to my friends and family, who have no idea what I’m talking about. I also have two separate laptops, one that I use for school and one that I use for personal business.”
6. Self Care, self care, self care
Much like how we set time aside to study, it’s important to also set time aside for self care. From having a mini spa day to hanging out by the pool all day, self care is important to staying successful and motivated.
“Engaging in campus activities, joining clubs, attending events and prioritizing your health and well-being helps in the long run to prevent burnout,” said Wawrzyniak. “Make time for exercise, healthy eating and relaxation.”
Taking care of yourself can keep away the burnout during finals or even the mid-semester burnout.
College is about more than studying and acing exams. It’s about making memories. While focusing on your goals and keeping up with coursework, remember to take time for yourself. Hang out with friends, unwind and enjoy the college experience.
With these tips and tricks to staying successful this semester, you’ll be celebrating, having good vibes and crushing the college experience.
