For your favorite football team, it’s pretty clear-cut what will constitute a good start versus a bad one this weekend: whether or not they win. But for students anxious to keep up with classwork while also attempting to keep their attention balanced on things like family, friends, work (and yes, some football) what merits a good start is a bit fuzzier.
So since there is no true correct answer when it comes to starting your year right, we instead turn to the ways you don’t want to begin. Here are a few of them.
With low expectations – If you’re not excited about some part of school, you’re doing it wrong. Starting the year without any clear cut goals, topics, or events to look forward to can put you into a trap of boredom and should be countered by sorting syllabi, your calendar, and your own goals to find things you have high expectations for.
With a hybrid schedule – If you’re still staying up a bit too late watching Netflix or find yourself hitting the snooze button more than you’d like, it’s time to snap out of your summer schedule and go all-in on a set school plan. If needed, enjoy one more summer-like routine on a weekend, and then accept that it’s time to buckle down by developing a new schedule.
With a litany of questions – For transfers and freshmen especially, not getting certain confusions sorted out before it’s too late can end up hurting you in the end. Write down the things that you’re unclear on – from school policies to individual assignment instruction to planning – and always find them out as soon as possible by contacting an advisor, peer, or your Student Assistance Program.
Doing the same as you did last year – Even if you are completely satisfied with how your last school year went, try something new. Joining a club, switching your routine, or even sitting by different people in your classes can open up entirely new opportunities – the kind that make college productive and meaningful.
On your rear end – Seriously. You can’t get a running start on the school year if you spend all your time sitting. Instead, get active by walking or biking to destinations that are within a couple miles, work out when possible, and simply get out as much as you can. Aside from taking advantage of what good weather the summer still has, you’ll shed stress and gain energy.
Need more tips? Contact ACI on Twitter at @ACISpecBenefits or on facebook, Google+, Pinterest, or YouTube. Also feel free to contact ACI Specialty Benefits at (800) 932-0034, or email info@acispecialtybenefits.com
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