It’s that time of year again. School’s back in session. Starting a new semester can be really nerve racking for both freshmen and returning students. It can be overwhelming being in a new environment and being surrounded by a host of new faces. This may leave a person lost with the question of how they will survive. If you’re one of these people, don’t be alarmed. Here are five tips that can be very beneficial to helping you survive your fall semester:

1. Find Your Niche

A lot of people say that college is the time of your life. Throughout one’s college experience, a person can get to meet a lot of new faces and form close, long-lasting bonds.

As a result of developing new relationships this year, you will begin to find yourself. High school was a place where almost everyone knew each other. Even if you didn’t interact with someone, chances are, they were still a familiar face. When you’re starting college, especially away from home, there aren’t as many familiar faces. This is why it is important to find a niche. Having a group which you belong to is nice because it makes you feel more comfortable. When you feel more relaxed in the environment that you’re in, it becomes easier to focus. The clarity that you will gain is very important if you want to pass and get good grades.

2. Use Your Resources

There are plenty of resources on campus for students to use. As Wilkes students, we can take pride in resources such as the library, tutoring, the writing center and many others. Also, never be afraid to ask anyone for help. In fact, during my transfer orientation, one of the speakers said something that I will always carry with me. The speaker mentioned that even the most successful people such as celebrities and icons need help along the way so you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. The resources are provided for all students because the professors and staff here at Wilkes want to see us all succeed.

3. Don’t Procrastinate

Although not procrastinating is easier said than done, it is something that most people need to keep in mind. Waiting until the night before, or even the day of an assignment to study or complete your homework is never good. Professors can easily tell who actually took the time to do the work and who waited until the last minute. Your chances of getting good grades are a lot higher if you put time into doing your assignments.

4. Learn Time Management

As college students it is very important to learn time management. Give yourself time to breathe in between classes and assignments. Make sure you allow yourself to have enough time to get your homework done. Rushing is never an efficient way of doing anything. Rushing can lead to things such as stress, low grades, and a negative college experience. So make sure to manage and use your time wisely.

5. Mental Health Breaks

Lastly, make sure to give yourself time to refuel. Don’t try to overload yourself with projects. If doing something becomes too much to handle, put it aside for a couple of minutes. Do something to relieve some of that stress. After you regain your focus, go back to your work and try again.

Keep these tips in mind throughout the year, and you will be able to survive your fall semester and make it a good one.