While you enjoy the last days of summer break before heading back to campus, take a few minutes and think about the new semester. Is your goal to start things off on the right foot? There’s no time better than the beginning of a new school year to set yourself up for success. Here are a few tips to help you have a triumphant return to campus!
Go to the Front of the Class
Where you sit often determines how well you do in the courses you take. If you sit near the front, it can help you stay focused. Choosing a seat toward the front of the classroom or lecture hall also means you can hear and see better than if you sit in the back. Wherever you sit, don’t let professors or other classmates intimidate you. Ask questions when you don’t understand something. There are no stupid questions! If you have one, it’s likely other students are wondering the same thing but are afraid to ask.
Watch Out for the Freshmen Fifteen
You heard about the freshmen fifteen during your first year on campus. It’s not only freshmen who are susceptible to weight gain. Even seasoned students lose track of the amount of unhealthy food they eat. The first weeks back on campus are a great time to develop a few new healthy eating and drinking strategies. First, don’t skip meals! Pack healthy snacks you can toss in your backpack. Make sure you get enough fluids so that you don’t get dehydrated. It’s easy when you buy an insulated tumbler. On warm days, fill it with cold water. Then, when the weather gets chilly, prepare hot coffee or tea and take it with you when you leave for class. Another way you can avoid weight gain is scheduling regular exercise. Treat your body right! If you do, you’ll be able to count on your brain to function at maximum capacity.
Use Your Resources
When things don’t go as smoothly as you’d like, reach out for help. College students have many on-campus resources to help them be successful. In addition to your academic advisor, find out where the tutoring center is and make an appointment. College tutoring centers usually have a writing lab. Most schools also have a math lab and tutoring support for just about every college level course. For students with disabilities, all schools have some form of disability services. Don’t be afraid to ask. If you feel anxious or experience other troubling emotions, seek counseling on campus. The resources are there for you. Reach out!
Get Your Zzz’s
College life is uniquely exciting — especially on the weekends! Don’t forget about sleep. If you can, stick to a regular bedtime. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), college students need at least 8 hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble falling asleep, create a space that’s conducive for sleeping. Minimize clutter and remove distractions like books, tablets, cell phones, and even televisions.
Enjoy the Experience
College can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. You have the opportunity to learn from professors and fellow students. You’ll make lifelong friends. You may even discover a career you’re passionate about. If you’re a shy or tend to be an introvert, carry a personalized insulated tumbler around campus. Whether you have a funny quote, or your name printed on it, you’ll have a conversation starter. Make friends and have experiences. Above all, enjoy every minute!
Ready for a successful return to campus? Define U offers an array of fun personalized tumblers and customized plastic glasses that are perfect for dorm life. Visit us online today!