It’s January and you’re back to class, facing an onslaught of syllabi, required readings and assignments. How do you find your groove again after the break? Our Writing Centre tutors stepped up to share insight on how to navigate a new semester.

Carter: When I am preparing for a new semester and getting back into the swing of things, I find the first week of classes a weird space where the pressure of assignments has not kicked in, yet the need to ramp up the academic drive is essential. I like to spend the first week of classes (aside from beginning my required readings) looking over course outlines and inputting dates into my personal calendar. I found this to be extremely helpful in my planning throughout the semester, as I can catch what weeks may be particularly busy ahead of time.

Catherine: If I get organized before the term starts by doing things like reading the Course Outlines in advance and setting up my school supplies, I can ease myself out of my break mentality and get myself ready for the new term after a break. The next thing I do to make my life a little easier is start practicing a good sleep routine. I know that there will be days when I will not get the amount of sleep I want because school life is busy; however, ensuring that I get into the habit of getting enough sleep helps me feel more rested and awake for what I need to do during the term.

Ijaz: I always input all my appointments, classes, due dates, meetings, and work shifts in my calendar to get an idea about what my weeks will look like. It helps me keep above water with all my assignments! As a music student, I make sure to schedule time to practice, especially with the impending recital season! It can be stressful to balance many things at once, but one thing I know about managing time in the undergraduate setting is to take things step-by-step; after all, the day starts when I wake up!

From organization and regulating sleep to scheduling time for assignments and practice, there are multiple ways to make the most of this semester!