Every September marks the start of a new academic session and it could cause some agitation to students. Thinking about new teachers and school work, assignments and research, resources and networking could sometimes burden students, even though it does not have to.
We have seven practical tips to get students settled as they get back to school.
- Plan ahead
“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail” is a common saying. Cliché as it sounds, it is very true. Planning is very essential to success. Making great grades at the end of the session starts with planning to put in extra effort from the beginning and seeing it through. As you resume this month, have a plan and a roadmap to achieve the said plan. Do you want to be the best student in your class? Learn a new language? Be better organised? It all begins with a plan.
Executing one’s plan is also very important. Having a plan without executing the plan is as good as having no plan at all. Now that your plan is in place, what are you doing to bring it to fruition? Take practical steps.
- Get into a routine
You are bound to be more productive daily if you know what to do per time. Make a list of tasks and activities to achieve every day and tick them off as you go. Shower, breakfast, devotion, study time, research, play time? All can be done without anyone suffering if you stick to a routine.
- Create your safe space
Every successful person has a safe space. Their personalised no-distraction zone. You should create one for yourself too. It could be a physical or mental state. Just a place or state in which you can be alone to meditate and sort out your thoughts and plans, read or generally enjoy your own company.
- Start small
Remember we talked about your plans. Achieving those takes time and a process; one step at a time. The journey of a thousand miles starts with a step (in the right direction, we might add).
- Safety
It takes one who is alive and well to enjoy their achievements. Pay careful attention to your physical and mental health, also protect yourself from bodily injuries. Stay safe this new school year.
- Make friends
The power of networking cannot be overemphasised. The friends you make now can be with you through life and provide support in one way or another as you go through life’s journey. A friendly smile can brighten up a rough day and you can also make people’s lives better by being a good, dependable friend and classmate.
- Remember the God-factor
When all is said and done, there may be circumstances beyond your control that may affect the achievement of your plans. In all you do, remember to pray and ask for God’s guidance so He can see you through.
