Student Life

Starting a New Semester Strong

Starting a New Semester Strong

Coming back to university after a long break can sometimes be jarring. It’s easy to slip into the same routine you kept while at home, but here is how to get back into the groove of a new semester after some much needed time off!

1. Reconnect with Old Friends
It’s easy to get distant from the people you once connected with deeply after not seeing them for a long time. Make sure to take time to talk to your friends, catch up, and let them know you value their presence in your life. Having good friends in university can make the experience beautiful, meaningful, and exhilarating. 

2. Make Sure to Stay Involved
If you were somehow involved in clubs, theatre, or sports last semester, try and stay close to those passions! Homesickness can be diverted by keeping busy and focusing on all the good things in your university experience, especially those things that drive you. 

3. Give Yourself A Chance to Start Fresh
I know the cliche is “new year, new me”, and you may cringe every time you see an Instagram post with that caption, but know that this new semester is the chance for a fresh start.  

4. Evaluate Your Progress
Make sure to look back and evaluate what you did well last semester, and how you can improve. Learning to be your own critic and best supporter can ensure an honest and strong relationship with yourself, and is a great way to show yourself love and kindness. Treat yourself like you are your best friend, and be honest in how you felt last semester. 

5. Move on From Failures
You are not your mistakes! Failing a class last semester, not doing as well as you thought you would, or not going out as much as you initially desired provides you with a starting point to do better. Don’t ridicule yourself - build from your mistakes and move on with a positive mindset. 