Semester Refresh

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There is nothing quite as exciting and daunting as a new semester! The horrors of last semester's finals are an eternity in the past, and all you can think about now is how pretty your new textbooks look, how cool "Restoration Comedy" sounds, and what outfit its going to take to catch the eye of the boy in the second row.
Lets start the new year, and new semester, right!

Courses, courses, courses

For some your first day of classes was today, while others have already been in class for a week now (I'm looking at you BC and Alberta students!). Attending the first class may seem like a waste of time, but its always a good idea to get a feel for the class. The description in the class registrar may seem either boring or difficult, but sometimes just 20 minutes of looking over the syllabus can completely change your opinion. This is the time to decide if the class and prof are right for you, and add, drop, or switch courses without losing tuition. Even if you think you're going to drop the class, it may be a good idea to still check it out, that way if it is offered again in the future you already have an idea what to expect. Also, you should always trust your gut feeling, if you think you have too much on your plate, or aren't being challenged enough, then play with your schedule. If you are unsure about courses and/or requirements, this is the time to book an appointment with a counselor!

Graduation

For some, this may be your last semester (congratulations!) or getting close to. If you haven't already, see a counselor, talk to the head of your department, or review your requirements to make sure you have met all for graduation before its too late!

buying textbooks

In case you didn't learn the lesson in September, don't buy your books right away. Instead, attend the class first and make sure you will take the class. Most university bookstores won't refund your textbooks because you dropped a class. Also, while reviewing the syllabus, some profs will tell you which books to buy, which ones are necessary, if you can get older (and cheaper) editions, or even if there is an online source you can use instead (sometimes free if not cheaper). If you know someone who has taken the class before, see if they would like to sell their old books to you. Most universities have a separate bookstore where they sell previously owned books. This is helpful because it is usually much cheaper and your purchase helps out a student! Finally, look off campus. If your prof has approved older editions you may be able to purchase it at a second hand bookstore for less than a coffee, or if you are a member to a high-chain bookstore you can have additional savings on your purchases. And, if available and in good quality, always buy used!

Start the new year right

The first week or so are usually slow because students are switching in and out of classes, but that doesn't mean you should put off your readings! Its very easy to fall behind, so even if it's just 50 pages, be sure to keep up with your work.

organize your desk

Perhaps its just me, but nothing feels more refreshing than organizing your desk! Shred those doodles, hole-punch those study notes, sharpen those pencils! Its time to prepare for the new semester and any chaos it may bring!

What excites you about a new semester?