Transitioning to a new semester can feel overwhelming, especially after a month-long winter break. However, with a new semester comes a fresh start, new opportunities, new challenges, and an even deeper understanding of how to make the most of your time on campus. As a sophomore who has spent time reflecting on her freshman year, I’ve picked up some insights and tips that can help you finish off your first year strong. Here are some of my TOP tips for navigating your spring semester.
- Look over and refresh some of your academic goals.
As I said, starting a new semester allows you to fix up or add to your academic plans/goals. Genuinely take some time to reflect on your last semester. What worked? What did NOT work? And be realistic about your goals. Don’t tell yourself you’re waking up before 8:00 to study in Martin or Shad because we both know that’s not happening. Try to create a consistent study schedule that works for you. Funny enough, I gained most of my study skills by just asking my professors how they balance all the classes they teach. So, don’t hesitate to reach out during office hours. They are here to help us throughout college, and any help can make a BIG difference.
- Get Involved!
I know this one seems obvious, and it’s the one they tend to shove down your throats every semester, but it is true! Don’t be afraid to try out something that piques your interest. Last year, during my freshman spring, I decided to go through with formal recruitment. Since then, I have met so many people on campus that I never would have been able to meet if I had been to scared to try something new. Getting involved also allows you to take on fun leadership roles. So not only will you get the chance to make new friends, but you will be able to build skills and memories that will last beyond college.
- Build relationships with upperclassmen.
This one might seem silly, but as you join new clubs or continue to grow within a club you already joined in the fall, make sure to get to know the sophomores, juniors, and seniors. They have been in your shoes before (and not to long ago), so they can offer valuable advice. Some of the people whom I look up to and seek out for advice to this day are a lot of the sophomores and juniors that I met during my Freshman year. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with us!
- Explore what’s beyond F&M!
The weather sucks right now, but once it starts warming up, Lancaster is such a beautiful place to explore with friends or even on your own! One of my favorite activities during freshman year was visiting Lancaster Central Market. I was there almost every week, and it was a fun way to bond with my friends on our walk to and from the market. I also enjoyed exploring all the fun shops in downtown Lancaster. My personal favorite is “Lancaster Market Flowers.” Going downtown can be a fresh breath of air when sometimes campus can feel trapped in a bubble.
All in all, your first spring semester at F&M is an exciting opportunity to grow academically and personally while getting the chance to meet new people and develop more substantial connections with those already in your circle. Set clear goals, get involved, and use all the resources available to you, and you will be setting yourself up for a memorable semester. Don’t forget to enjoy every step in the moment!
Paola Pardo is a Contributing Writer. Her email is ppardo@fandm.edu.