SECOND SEMESTER TIPS
February 21, 2023
The importance of getting back into routines
As the second semester of the school year begins, students need to get back into routines. For many students, this means getting back into a regular sleep schedule, eating healthy meals, and exercising regularly. Getting back into these routines can help reduce stress and improve academic performance.
Students can do a few simple things to help them get back into their routines.
Help Guide to Return to a Routine
- Know your schedule: One of the best methods to get back into a routine is to know your schedule. This means knowing when your classes are, when you have free time, and when you need to study. By knowing your schedule, you can better plan your days and ensure you have time for everything you need to do.
- Set goals: Setting goals for yourself can help you stay on track and motivated. When setting goals, be realistic and make sure that they are specific. For instance, rather than setting a goal to "exercise more," set a goal to "exercise for 30 minutes three times per week."
- Get up and stay organized: Another way to return to a routine is by getting up and staying organized. This means getting up at the same time each day, making a list of things you need to do, and sticking to your schedule. You can help reduce stress and stay on track by getting up and staying organized.
- Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for both physical and mental health. Students need around 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Getting enough sleep can sometimes be challenging, but trying to have as much rest as possible is important. Avoid using screens (e.g., phones, computers, TVs) before bedtime. The light from these devices can disrupt your sleep cycle and make it harder to fall asleep at night.
These simple changes can help students feel better and do better in school.
But why are we even discussing it; let's find out.
Why is getting back into a routine so important?
- The second semester is when you can make up for lost points from the first semester: In the first semester, you are still getting used to the workload and may not have performed as well as you would have liked. However, in the second semester, you have a chance to get settled into your classes and bring up your grades.
- Second semester is when most colleges start giving out financial aid: For many students, college is only affordable because of financial aid. And for most schools, the second semester is when they begin distributing aid. So if you need help paying for college, ensure you stay on top of your grades in the second semester.
- Your GPA from the second semester carries more weight than your GPA from the first semester: In general, colleges emphasize your second semester grades when deciding whether to award you scholarships or admit you into certain programs. So if you're aiming for a specific goal, take your time in the second semester.
- The second semester is a good time to start brainstorming about your future: In the second semester, you'll likely have less time than you did in the first semester. This is a great but stressful opportunity to start thinking about your plans, whether looking into graduate programs or finding out what you want to do after school.
- It's a chance to get ahead of your classmates and prepare for college exams: The second semester is a great opportunity to get ahead of your classmates by preparing for college exams. This will help you immensely when it comes time to take the exams.
- You can start building relationships with your teachers and develop a support network: One thing you can do in the second semester is start building relationships with your professors. If you need help with anything, they'll be more likely to assist you if they know you. Additionally, developing a good relationship with your professors can be handy when applying for jobs or graduate school. So try to get to know your teachers and ask them for help when needed.
- You'll be able to start planning for your future: The second semester is a great time to start thinking about your future life and what you want to do after high school. If you're still trying to know what you wish to do, this is the perfect time to start exploring your options. Talk to your parents, teachers, and guidance counselors about your plans and look into different colleges and careers. The more information you can collect, the better you'll be prepared to decide your future.
- It's an excellent opportunity to explore new interests and discover new talents: The second semester is the time to explore new interests and discover new skills. If there's something you've always wanted to try, now is the time to do it. You never know; you might find a new passion and build a career in it.
- All good colleges are preparing their list: The college application process is daunting, but if you start early and are well-prepared for the call with your grades or knowledge about what field you would be best suited in, chances are much higher that they'll accept. It's also important to research which colleges fit those interests so that when applying, there aren't any surprises waiting on top of an already stressful situation.
- More work: The second semester of college is usually when things get really busy. Keeping everything straight between research projects, papers, and exams can be challenging. That's why it's essential to be as organized as possible. Create a schedule and stick to it, and you'll be able to manage your time. Additionally, try to take your time. It's easy to put off work when there's so much of it, but it will only make things more difficult. If you can stay on top of things, you'll be able to get through the second semester with flying colors.
Summing up
Getting back into things after winter break can be challenging, but staying focused on your goals is essential. If you need help, talk to your parents, teachers, or guidance counselors. They can provide you with the support you need to succeed.