The New Year, the new semester, is the best time to start making changes. If there is anything that you could do to make yourself a better student, now is the time to get started. Don’t hesitate; before the new semester begins make a plan of the things you want to improve and the best way to get it done. Than make an effort to track your progress through a journal or checklist. That way you’ll stay motivated and the proof of all your hard work will be in front of your eyes.
Getting More Involved-
Are you doing everything you can to build your resume and develop connections? Are you a member of organizations that will benefit you in the long run? Have you taken the plunge and applied for that internship that scares you?
Now is the time to do it. The first week of classes is the best time to join or even start a student organization. And you can take advantage of the slow pace in the first week or two to finish your cover letter and maybe get the letters of recommendation you need for that internship. Just do it, and you’ll be surprised at how much you enjoy your activities and how quickly you see progress.
Focusing on your Studies-
Do you spend too much time watching House and not enough time hitting the books? Was your GPA not as high as you expected it to be last term?
Your GPA is important. Graduate schools, future employers, scholarships, and even some classes may require you to have a high GPA. Take advantage of the new semester to get started on some better studying habits. Use tools like Stay Focused to help you block out distracting activities, and be determined to do your best.
Putting Yourself out there-
Do you spend a few too many hours in the library? Is making friends hard for you? Are you a bit too involved in your school work?
As important as your GPA and student activities are recreational activities shouldn’t be forgotten. Take some time to get to know the people around you and enjoy your college experience; after all you only get to do it once. Join a fraternity or sorority (they have to focus on studying too), volunteer in your community, and just don’t hesitate to put yourself out there.
Making your Health a Priority-
Are you eating a healthy diet? Do you exercise regularly? Do you take the time to pamper yourself occasionally?
Yes, it’s a cliché to make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or take better care of your body, but you have to start sometime. Why not now? One thing I’ve learned is that getting started on both at the same time is the best option. If you’re fully dedicated to your health than it’s easier to keep yourself motivated and to see results. If you’re eating donuts and running or starving yourself while you sit on the couch you’ll probably feel a lot more stressed and unhappy than if you make every effort to exercise and eat right at the same time.
