Back to School Tips
It’s that time of year again! Summer is ending and it’s back to school. Sadly, my time being a college student is coming to an end. For many of you, this might just be the beginning. Being a student, like anything else, takes time and patience. Below are some tips on how to be a better student! Whether you are an old student like me, or just starting college, these tips will help you do your best while you’re in school!
Buy a planner- A lot happens when you’re a student. It’s a balance between going to class, getting your work done, and socializing. Invest in a planner/agenda to make sure you write down everything you have to get done. In the long run, this will help you be more organized. Also print out your class schedule. I use Canva to make a cute colorful class schedule. It makes it easier to visualize what I have to do and where, which leads me to the next tip.
Stay on top of things- In the beginning of each semester, your professor will give you a syllabus that has everything from the types of assignments you will be doing, to the dates those assignments are due. Stay on track! Keep note of due dates. Also, look ahead to see what kind of projects or assignments you’ll be doing in the future. You can brainstorm topics for possible future projects which means less stress for you when the time comes to actually do the project.
Get all the books you need in the beginning- Your syllabus will also tell you the required texts or reading you’ll need. I recommend getting them as soon as possible so you can have them once you need to start them. You don’t want to get behind because you don’t have time to go to the book store or Amazon can’t deliver on time.
Manage your time better- If you have 4 classes, try your best to distribute time to do work for each class. It’s better than finishing all your work for all 4 classes in one day….you’ll regret it. I find that I would do work for 2 classes in one day and then switch off the next day. Your assignments will be better and you will probably make less mistakes
Stay organized- This has to do with the tips above. Just do it.
Bring your snacks/lunch- School campuses mostly have junk food. Healthier snacks also tend to be more expensive. Even though it takes more time, pack your own food! You will stay healthier this way and spend less money. Trader Joes and Costco are great places to buy healthy snacks on a budget.
Stay healthy- Drink plenty of water, take vitamins (like Vitamin C), and invest in some hand sanitizer. Schools campuses have a plethora of germs and it is easy to get sick, especially when you are stressed. Get as much sleep as you can! In college, once you get behind, its easy to stay behind and spiral.
Go to class- being sick is one thing, being lazy is another. As stated above, don’t get behind!
Eat breakfast- This has to do with staying healthy. If you eat breakfast, you’ll have energy and feel good to start your day. I like eating oatmeal, waffles, and eggs for breakfast. All are relatively quick and easy to make!
If you look good, you’ll feel good- I treat going to school like my job. Unless I am feeling crappy, I do my best to dress nicely. Overall, it just makes me feel good.
Ask questions-Email your professors or meet with them during office hours (time and location usually is listed on your syllabus). If you don’t understand something, it’s ok! Professors are there to help and will definitely answer any questions you have.
Make a little “me” time- It’s easy to get wrapped up in school and school work. Make sure to make some time for yourself so it doesn’t feel too heavy. For me, this meant I would watch an hour of a show I liked on Netflix and getting a cheat meal (like Taco Bell).
Make friends in class- Remember, everyone is one the same boat in college. You all want to succeed and get things done (I hope). Make some like minded friends who can help you achieve this. It’ll make class fun and less painful!
Remember you are doing your best- This one is self explanatory. There will always be someone you think is smarter than you or doing better than you. You are just as capable and it can be a lot of pressure but remember, you are in college! Whether it’s community college or a university, you made it!
I hope my fellow students find these tips useful! Some last few suggestions I would like to make are, check Amazon for cheaper rentals or used books, I’ve saved a lot of money doing this! Also, Always check whatever learning management system your school has. For me, thats Beachboard. Professors post assignments and have you turn in assignments using this. They will also post messages on here so make sure you are always checking it! Finally, check your school email, professors and your school will be probably be directly emailing you here so make sure you log on to see whats going on.
Hope these tips help! If you ever need help or a friend, do not be afraid to DM me on Instagram. Have a good semester!
