How to Succeed when Starting Spring Semester

It’s the beginning of January, and that means one thing: spring semester is here. For some, that means an exciting start to a new set of classes. For others, it’s the bittersweet beginning of the end as they look forward to graduation in May. Yet others may find that it’s a time for a fresh start. Perhaps your first semester grades weren’t so stellar, or you’re just hoping to get a little more of a head start this time around. No matter what your situation may be going into this new chapter of college life, a few tips can help you get started – and continue – in success this spring semester.  

At Concordia University, Nebraska, you’ll be surrounded by professors and peers who want to see you succeed and are ready to help you along the way, but starting a new set of classes can nevertheless be daunting. Here are some tips that will help you ensure that your transition into this spring semester is a smooth one.  

Set some goals 

Sure, you’ve been in college for at least a semester now, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t set new goals for your second semester. New goals are especially important if you want to make a change going into the latter half of the school year – and they aren’t a “one size fits all.” Your goals are unique to you and can address any area of your life in which you’d like to reach a certain standard. 

For example, you might set a goal to use your planner every day, or to start studying at least a week before upcoming tests. Furthermore, goals don’t have to be purely academic. Your second-semester goals could include exercising at least twice a week or trying not to complain as much. The point is: goals are a great way to work toward something new and can be adjusted to fit your needs.  

Make sure to get your books! 

Although courses vary in the time it takes them to get to using required texts, it’s typically a good idea to have access to the course textbook by the end of the first or second week of the semester. If you buy or rent books from the bookstore, that means seeking out your required texts during your first few days back on campus. If you order books online, think ahead – ordering books near the end of Christmas break may be a good idea.  

Course success is highly dependent on your ability to grasp the material fully. For many courses, reading outside of class will help to ensure that you understand what you’re learning. If you didn’t use the required texts for your fall semester classes and weren’t satisfied with your academic performance, make a change in the new semester and get those books early! 

Switch up your study spot 

Were you constantly distracted when you studied during first semester, or did you find it hard to focus? Spring semester could be the perfect time to find a new study spot! Try out several different ones until you find the one that’s right for you – and don’t be afraid to change it up midway through the semester, either! Make sure that your study spot is somewhere that you can focus for extended periods of time, are comfortable and feel that you make progress on what you’re doing.  

Manage your time 

Time management is key to any semester’s success. Time management might look like taking less time to scroll through your phone and more time to do homework, but it can also look like taking a step back from a job or a sport to ensure that you’re not too overwhelmed. Before stepping into the busyness of another semester of college, consider what made you successful – or unsuccessful – in completing everything you had to do during fall semester.  

Was it easy for you to take 15 credit hours while working several hours per week, or were you stretched too thin while taking 18 hours and working every night? What about sports practice or rehearsal for a musical ensemble? Consider where you’ll fit what you need into your schedule and set priorities. Be intentional about making time for what is most important to you and your future.  

Let yourself grow 

Most importantly, let yourself grow and thrive during spring semester. Your goals should, ideally, include more than just academics; they should be personal. Whatever this looks like for you, ensure that you’re taking time for yourself mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Attend chapel services on campus or go to Praise to spend time growing your faith. Schedule time for self-care and pursue hobbies that make you happy, even if it’s only for short amounts of time.  

Whether you had a spectacular or a not-so-impressive fall semester, starting a new semester is a time to re-evaluate your goals and aspirations, to check in with yourself and to start fresh. This spring semester, set some specific goals, dedicate yourself to succeeding academically and allow time for personal growth. When the academic year ends, then, you can hopefully look back upon a highly successful semester.  

Concordia University, Nebraska promises students a Lutheran, Christian higher education that equips them not only with skills and a degree, but also a sense of vocation and purpose for the future. It emphasizes the importance of the Gospel and is a Christ-centered community of believers and academics. Learn more about applying to Concordia here.