The new school year is officially here and that means the start of new schedules, routines, and classes. Heading into a new school year can mean different things for different people. For some, it’s the beginning of a fresh start, while for others, it is a bit overwhelming. Regardless of which one of these applies to you, try to remember to have fun. You cannot always be in control of how things will turn out, but with effort, consistency, and a plan, you can rest assured that you will be okay. While the pre-school year jitters are sometimes an inevitable part of the process, there are a few things that can be done to kick start the year in a way that is seamless and productive. 

 

Catch those Z’s

It is imperative to get a good night’s rest in order to be productive and to function at your best. However, after spending most of the summer staying up late nights and sleeping in during the mornings, your body will need some time to readjust to your new sleeping schedule. As tempting as it may be to soak up your summer nights until the night before school, it would be in your best interest if you start going to bed early at least a week or two before school begins. This will make for a smoother first week where you are fully attentive during class and not struggling to keep your eyes open.

 

Back to School Shopping

A new school year calls for new threads and new supplies! While school shopping can be fun and exciting, it can also be stressful if you wait until the last minute and end up having trouble finding what you are looking for. Try your best to shop in advance in order to ensure that you get the supplies you need for school. Having a game plan will help ensure a more pleasurable shopping experience rather than a rushed and hectic one.

 

Get a Planner

With a new school year comes new activities and responsibilities! Save yourself the headache of trying to mentally keep track of everything and invest in a planner. Whether you prefer a physical or digital one, planners can help to keep everything organized. Keep track of after school meeting days, homework assignments and the names and room numbers of your new teachers. 

 

Routine, Routine, Routine!

Speaking of planning…getting into a routine will be instrumental in setting yourself up for success for the new year. Summer is sometimes filled with the luxury of not having a planned-out day every day, but once school starts, it’s in your best interest to get a routine going. Having structure and a set routine in the morning will help you more than you know. Get a good start to your day by having breakfast around the same time in the morning. Skip worrying about what to wear by picking out clothes the night before. If you need a break afterschool, give yourself 30 minutes to relax before diving into your homework. Whatever it looks like for you, creating a routine that keeps you on schedule will give you the structure you need to set the tone for the year ahead.

 

Set Goals and Manage Expectations

One of the best ways to plan your school year effectively is to set goals and manage the expectations you have for yourself. What are your goals heading into the new year? Are you aiming to make straight A’s? Are there organizations you would like to be a part of? Is it a goal of yours to make a certain score on the SAT or ACT? Think about the vision you have in mind for the year ahead and make a list of the goals you would like to accomplish. Keep in mind that your goals should be attainable. Manage your expectations and understand that sometimes things will go according to plan and some things might not… and that’s okay.

Happy School Year!

-Paulina Dorsett