Setting Yourself Up for the New Academic Year

A new academic year always feels like a fresh start. New classes, new schedules, new goals, and maybe a little bit of “wait, how am I supposed to balance all of this?”

Whether you’re starting university for the first time or returning for another year, getting back into that school routine can take some adjusting. As a student I’ve learned that preparing for the year is more than buying new school supplies or having your timetable scheduled. It is also about preparing yourself mentally and setting yourself up so that when things get busy you have a plan to fall back on.

Here are a few things that have helped me get my life in order before the new academic year:

Get organized before you actually need to be

One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until an assignment is due to figure out what’s going on in the class is probably holding you back from your full potential.

Before class gets too hectic, look through your syllabus and take note of assignments, tests and deadlines. I like to add these to my notion or in your calendar so I can physically see what my semester looks like. 

Take care of your mental health

A new semester comes with new responsibilities, new stress and new methods of keeping your mental health in check. 

Lakehead’s Student Health and Wellness offers counselling, health services and wellness programming. Learn more about services available and how to book an appointment on the Student Health and Wellness Website.

You don't have to wait until you are at your breaking point to reach out. Talking to someone early can prevent a stressful situation from becoming even harder.

Give yourself room to adjust 

This is the biggest thing for me. You don’t have to have it all figured out immediately. 

Your first week might not go exactly how you imagined, it may take a little longer for you to make a friend, understand a concept in one of your courses or you may feel homesick. 

That's okay.

Instead of expecting yourself to have a perfect semester, focus on making small improvements as you go. Go to office hours, adjust your habits, try something new and learn what actually works for you.

Remember that support is always available. If you’re struggling or just need someone to talk to, don’t be afraid to reach out to Lakehead’s wellness and student support resources.

Here’s to a fresh start and a great year ahead! 

 - Tiana Mafukidze, Peer Wellness Educator Lead