Why prepping at the beginning of the school year is crucial?

The fall semester of the new academic year has begun and sometimes students, both incoming and returning, struggle adjusting to a new and unfamiliar environment after a long summer break. 

It can be dreadful just to even think about the first day. The first week. So on and so forth as we think we might have to go in blind. But that’s not the case.

As unpleasant as it sounds, students need to prepare for the new school year as soon as they receive fall semester schedules and emails of necessary textbooks for classes. 

It’s not as scary as it sounds. There are many ways to prepare for the upcoming months of the academic year and ways to balance and keep track of tasks.

Plan weeks ahead. Students tend to explore new things upon their return to campus, whether that be jobs, clubs or sports. When joining a sports team or organization, expect practices and meetings in the first few weeks. Write down meeting or practice dates down on a calendar or planner to make sure it won’t clash with a class or job schedule. 

Find out where classes are and potential study spots. MSU’s campus is filled with hidden gems of study spots that can be next to a class. Find out where a class will be and search for a study spot nearby. We as students can have a bit of time between classes so spend it studying or taking a break.

If in need of help, ask. The first few weeks can be stressful, scary and busy. Students second guess themselves and wonder if they chose the right classes. Here’s a survival tip: Never be afraid to go to an advisor. Their task is to help students find a schedule that works for both their academic and personal lives. They will provide suggestions and, if students wish to prepare themselves for the next semester as well, they shouldn’t be afraid to talk about a future spring schedule. 

Read through the class syllabus. Find what material will be discussed throughout the next few weeks so that there’s no surprise projects, presentations or essays. Add the assignment due dates to a planner in order to plan and work accordingly. Determine the professor’s expectations and keep their contact in mind in case of questions about assignments or class material. Remember, never be afraid to ask for help. 

It is crucial to be prepared. If you want to be successful, going in blind isn’t an option. Plan ahead, set a routine, turn in your assignments on time and remember to take breaks; looking after our mental health is the first step into being prepared for everything.