Back to School Resolutions

I used to love going back to school every September. Showing off a sleek tan, seeing who’s gained weight and who got hot, and just catching up with friends after months of no contact. That first week before school starts is the best. Party after party, no homework- it’s almost as if Spring Break came to you.

But the days before this partying bliss are usually spent thinking, “I’m going to do it right this year. I’m going to get my books early, be organized, and stay on top from day one.” And that’s a nice little thought that seems to come and go. But what if you actually stuck to this resolution this year? The longer you wait, the harder it gets. I have gone a few weeks without the necessary books and it always adds up to more work.

Top 10 back to school resolutions

1. Buy books on time
It’s so easy to look at the never-ending line wrapped around the bookstore and decide to come back later. But by the time the line subsides, you’re already a few weeks into the semester and behind on your work. Check to see if your professors have posted the syllabus online before school even starts and get ahead start at the bookstore, or take advantage of my favorite retailer, half.com. 

2. File papers as soon as you get them
I think back to my college days when just three-hole-punching handouts was too much for me to handle, and I just cringe. By mid-semester, I had papers all over the place, never knowing exactly where anything was. In grad school I did it right and was organized from day one, and I can’t tell you how much easier that made my life come exam time. 

3. Create a master calendar
Ah, the lost art of planning ahead. Putting together a calendar of every assignment that is due for every class for the whole semester is the best way to strategize your time. Post it in your room so you can see it every day. Term papers always sneak up out of nowhere, so having a visual reminder will help you plan accordingly.