As winter break wraps up, many students encounter the challenge of re-entering their routines. After weeks filled with relaxation, holiday celebrations, and maybe a bit too much TikTok, shifting gears can be a struggle — especially in the midst of winter! Here are some helpful tips to help you smoothly transition back to college life for the spring semester.
Use a Planner
With plenty of new calendar-year planners available in stores, find one that resonates with your style. Then, make the most of it! Outline your class and work schedules, exam dates, assignment deadlines, and extracurricular activities. This will help you visualize your weeks and carve out time for relaxation, socializing, and study breaks.
Set Goals
Reflect on goals for the semester. These could include academic achievements or personal growth objectives, such as joining a club or improving your time management skills. Consider creating S.M.A.R.T. Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Having well-defined goals will help keep you motivated as the semester unfolds.
(Re)Connect with Peers
Never underestimate the power of social connections. Reach out to classmates and friends to catch up and share your goals for the semester. This can rekindle your motivation and remind you that you’re not alone on this journey.
Also, consider joining a student organization or club to meet new people and try new things. Being part of a group boosts confidence, develops skills, and provides networking opportunities with like-minded individuals who can assist your academic and personal experience throughout the semester. There are clubs for various interests to add to your college experience and resume. Explore the diverse student organizations at UWM to discover new passions or talents.
Establish a Routine
Re-establishing a daily routine can greatly improve your daily focus. Aim to wake up and go to bed at consistent times, schedule dedicated study sessions, and include time for exercise and rest. A balanced routine will help you feel more prepared for the semester that is ahead.
Organize your space
A messy room or desk can create distractions that hinder productivity. Spend some time tidying up the areas where you live or study to help clear your mind and improve your focus, as an organized space often leads to an organized mind. Creating a clean and inviting atmosphere can boost your motivation.
The semester can go by quickly, so make the most of it. It is totally normal to feel like the road ahead is long, but taking life day by day can help with overwhelm; plus, there is (sun)light at the end of the tunnel!
Take care, you got this.
Ashlyn, She/Her, Peer Health Educator