Gusty winds and frigid temperatures mark the start of the spring semester. Once again, students flood Case Quad, navigating new and challenging coursework and trauma bonding with their peers. Despite the enthusiasm that a new semester should bring, the end of winter break can dampen our spirits, making it difficult to return to the routine of college life. To get out of that post-break slump, I compiled a list of tips that can help you achieve success this year.
Getting on top of your schoolwork
Arguably, the most demanding aspect of a new semester is the classes. Between getting used to a new schedule, unfamiliar classmates and each professor’s unique teaching style, it can feel almost impossible to manage new coursework. However, this period does not need to be so dreadful. Use the first two weeks of the semester to explore different subjects, meet professors and get a feel for the class environment. This is the perfect time to drop any classes that don’t align with your interests and find ones that better meet your long-term goals. When it comes to doing well in the classroom, it can be easy to procrastinate when you have a fresh slate, but staying on top of your work from the beginning is key. Rather than letting assignments pile up, get a head start by reading ahead, completing small assignments as soon as possible and regularly reviewing your class materials. When you’re organized from day one, you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute cramming.
Creating a balanced schedule
When creating your schedule for the semester, try to squeeze in some time for fun. The life of a Case Western Reserve University student is undeniably stressful, so balance intense study sessions with relaxing nights with friends. Explore Cleveland, attend campus events or simply stay in for a movie and popcorn night. Succeeding academically is crucial to long-term success, but doing so should not take precedence over everything else in your life. College is about more than just studying; it’s about growing as a person, building connections and finding your passions. Whether you’re interested in sports, music, politics or volunteer work, getting involved in extracurricular activities can provide a healthy balance to your academic life and introduce you to a community of like-minded individuals.
Prioritizing your health and wellbeing
Especially as the days get colder, it can be easy to sacrifice your physical and mental health for more hours spent inside studying. While it can be easy to think of health as secondary to your success as a student, it plays an important role in your overall ability to thrive. Regular physical activity in the form of walking, a gym session or PE class can instill routine while also improving your mood and energy. If a trip to the Wyant Athletic and Wellness Center or the Veale Recreation Center seems far out of reach, settle for walks around campus or a quick at-home workout. Whatever you can do to get your body moving is a step in the right direction. In addition to exercise, maintaining a mostly healthy diet can ensure you feel fueled and energized throughout the day. This is difficult when you are limited to dining hall options or food spots on Euclid Avenue, but making healthier choices with your meals—such as swapping soda with water and adding more fresh fruit into your diet—can make all the difference. And last but not least, prioritize sleep. Many of us sacrifice sleep in favor of studying or socializing, but getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night is vital to ensuring your mind and body are well-rested for the day ahead.
Seeking help when you need it
Successful college students are those who can recognize when they need to ask for help. Despite a hustle culture that tends to value self-struggle, there is no shame in seeking advice and support when you feel overwhelmed. If you’re struggling with a particular class, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professor or teaching assistant for further instruction. If you are overworked, talk to your advisor about dropping a class or other commitment. Even in the toughest weeks of the semester, it is important to prioritize yourself both emotionally and physically. That is why it is important to build a network of trusted friends, professors and advisors who can provide you a sense of reassurance and motivation when life is not going your way.
“Comparison is the thief of joy”
The single best piece of advice I could give you for the semester and all those to follow is this: Recognize and appreciate your personal journey. At a place like CWRU, where each person you meet seems brighter than the next, it can be easy to be consumed by “comparison culture.” I’ve felt this pressure, constantly comparing my wins and losses to those of my peers. As tempting as this can be, it will only create feelings of inadequacy and hamper your self-esteem. It took me a long time to realize that my journey, however imperfect, is the only one that I should be fixated on. The best way to grow is to honor your unique path—paying attention to how small improvements in your academic performance, health and social sphere are evidence of your success as a student, friend and human being. So this semester, I encourage you to reflect on your journey, regardless of how it compares to those of your peers. Then, consider what changes you can make to get closer to the best, most fulfilled version of yourself. Along the way, continue to congratulate and celebrate your peers’ accomplishments, but try not to let their achievements diminish the validity of your own.
This list is only a starting point when it comes to navigating this new semester. There is no perfect formula for success, so it is important to take things one step at a time. Treat each day as a new one, and don’t let past setbacks dictate your future. The semester will inevitably bring with it highs and lows, but remember these tribulations are fleeting—one day they will just be fond memories of your time at CWRU.