The new school year for me starts on Monday. This marks the beginning of my second year of college. I feel that it has taken me forever to get here and that I have gotten to this point way too quickly. Starting a new school year can be very overwhelming, so here are my top five tips for starting a new school year.

1. Get organized

It is very hard to prepare for a new term, let alone a new year if things are cluttered. Take the time to organize your space, supplies, and thoughts before the new school year starts.

2. Ask questions when you are confused

If something is not making sense, ask for clarification! It is okay to not understand something the first, second and even third time around. I promise there are probably other students wondering the same thing, and most professors are happy to help their students understand something better.

3. Make time to study

It is very hard to understand something if the proper time is not taken to learn it. Set aside ample study time throughout your week.

4. Look through your syllabi

Each syllabus from each of your professors could truly save you! They have all the information you could ever need. Use them!

5. Just breathe

There is no sense in stressing yourself out even more than you already are. Enjoy this crazy and exciting time, and remember, it is okay to not be okay, and it is okay to ask for help.

Thank you for reading, as always. Please tell me what your favorite part about going back is, if you will be going back, or what you will be doing if you’re not going back in the comments.