Setting the Tone for an Amazing Semester

books-552607_1280 Image courtesy of Pixabay So, now that you’re back to school that’s it, right? You can just coast through and get great grades. Sadly, no. You have work to do! The first few weeks are crucial as they’ll set the tone for the rest of your semester. There are a couple of things that you need to hammer out before the semester really starts. Stake Your Claim Find a study area that suits your needs. You’ll spend a lot of your precious time studying. Whether you need complete quiet or background noise, you have to find a spot that fits your study style. Find an off campus coffee shop with quiet background conversations, a busy dining area so you can snack while you study, or a silent corner of the library. Make sure that wherever you choose is the best place for you to study at. If you can’t find the perfect study spot for you, there’s always Pierpont’s reservable study room to hide out in. You can keep away from the crowds and listen to your favorite study playlist out loud if that’s what helps you get in the zone. Stock Up Obviously, you’ll need furniture for your apartment but it’s important to stock up on other things so you’re not worrying about running out for something you’ve forgotten every day. Choose a Saturday and make a trip where you vow to get everything you’re going to need. Forgot a shower curtain liner? Grab it. Didn’t bring your favorite chips? Get them. Stock up on some healthy frozen meals for nutrition on the go. It’s much better than instant noodles or microwave macaroni and cheese. Find Your Zen Once the semester really kicks into high gear, you’re going to be busy nonstop. From group meetings to homework to part-time jobs, you’ll have a lot on your plate for the foreseeable future. You need a tried and true method for unwinding. Even if it’s something small like a hot mug of tea, if it helps, you’ll probably need it at some point this semester. Try venting your frustrations at the fitness center or one of the crossfit gyms around town like Crossfit Ridgeline. Find a bench in a secluded part of town and dedicate 30 minutes to just sitting in peace. Whatever helps you find your peace of mind and realign is what you need. The first couple of weeks are usually a blur but if you approach them with a good attitude and preparation, you can set a good tone for the rest of the semester. Do you have any first-week tips that help you get back into the swing of things? Share them with us on Facebook and Twitter.