Five Tips For Students at the Beginning of a New Semester

I remember the start of new semesters back when I was in college. It was always exciting to be back on campus, albeit a bit nerve-wracking as I never knew what the semester would hold. The Fall ‘22 semester begins next Monday, and I’m thankful to be beginning? my second year at The Collins College of Business at the University of Tulsa .?

While it’s exciting to reconnect with an amazing staff, faculty and student body, I’m also looking forward to meeting new students.? Come by Helmerich Hall and say Hello in the Dean’s office (and grab a chocolate to energize you for the days ahead!)?

To celebrate heading back to school, here are five tips for students looking to get their year off on the right foot.?

Organization is Key?

Starting your semester off organized is a great way to ensure that you do not fall behind in your academic and extracurricular responsibilities. It does not have to be a big effort either; start with something small, like putting due dates and obligations into a planner. That way, you have one reference point for things you need to remember during the semester.?

And if a planner does not work for you, find a system that does!? I have been testing out AnyDo, a simple app organizational tool.? But if you have one you use- share it with your fellow classmates (and me)? There is no set way to be organized. Find something that works for you and stick with it. Beginning the semester organized will limit potential stress in the future.?

Prioritize relationships

The college experience is all about forging powerful relationships – many of which can be just as useful as what you learn in the classroom. College is a time for different students from different backgrounds with different ideas to come together and work towards the same thing: to learn and grow together.?

To get the most out of your college experience, be sure to create meaningful connections with your professors, peers, and other people you encounter. You never know how some surprising meetings might have a big impact on your future. The faculty and staff are ready to help guide you in your time at TU (and beyond)?

Upperclassman, here’s a challenge for you: find not only people to learn from, but to mentor, as well. That’s what the college experience is all about.?

Give Yourself a Schedule?

It can be challenging to return to school after a break when many do not have set schedules. That’s why it’s essential to set a schedule for yourself once you are back on campus. Set times to wake up, study, participate in extracurriculars, enjoy downtime, and go to bed. By sticking to a schedule, you will get yourself into a routine that will make it much easier to get things done.?

I would also suggest starting to implement your self-made schedule before classes start. That way, there will be no adjustment period once the semester begins. It will make the transition from the break to school easier.?

Set Goals?

As you go into a new semester, consider what you want to accomplish for yourself. Is there a new organization you want to get involved with? Anything you want to work towards outside of school? If so, write these goals down and work toward them throughout the semester. If your goals seem too large, break them into smaller, more obtainable goals.?

By setting goals for yourself, you give yourself something to work toward throughout the semester. It’s a great way to keep yourself motivated. And once the semester is over, you can look back and reflect on all that you’ve accomplished.?

?Take Care of Yourself?

I remember my college days and how sometimes, it can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to take care of yourself. Take time for yourself; do the things you enjoy outside of class. If you find yourself needing to take a break, it’s okay.?

TU and other universities? provide mental health services for their students and student success coaches to help you adjuct. If you feel that you are in need of help, do not hesitate to reach out. With so much uncertainty in the world right now, your college’s faculty and staff are here to support you.?

The beginning of a new semester is important for so many reasons. These tips are just a few of the things that can help you navigate this time. I am rooting for your success this semester! Share any other tips you have for making your time in college a success!?