When a semester wraps up, you’re either extremely content with your performance, very close to a nervous breakdown, or somewhere in between—very confusing, I know. Regardless of where you lie in this complex spectrum of feelings and emotions, reflection is essential to continuing your successes and learning from your failures for the next semester.
Personally, getting ready for the second semester is a whole process for me. I’m typically too close to burnout, exhausted from the extended family interactions, and dreading returning to school (it always comes too soon!).
Here’s how I survive that odd period between all the family dinners and the start of school 😣
Take Care of Yourself
I find school and forced family interactions to be exhausting. Before the school year resumes, I need to feel physically, mentally, and emotionally refreshed.
How can you do that?
Well, consider this: what are some things that bring genuine contentment into your life? This is a big question, but it doesn’t need to be! It can be the small things or the big things—there are no rules, it is whatever you enjoy.
Personally, I love to spend time alone reading my books about fantasy and romance, re-watch comfort shows or start new shows, be creative with my prep for the next year, and catch up with friends here and there!
Do you like to spend time alone? Do you like to spend time with family or friends? Is there a hobby you haven’t had the chance to do during the semester?
Reflect on Your ENTIRE Previous Semester
Reflection is crucial for improvement! Regardless of how your semester went, this is how you can ensure you meet your academic goals.
Here are some questions to consider:
Midterm Season
How was your exam prep? What went well? What didn’t go well? Did you have enough time to prepare? What classes were your best/worst? Are there any trends? What will you continue/discontinue next semester? How was your self-care? Did you catch up on classes after exams?
Finals Season
How was your exam prep? What went well? What didn’t go well? Did you have enough time to prepare? How did your finals schedule play a role in your success? How was your burnout? Did the weight/timing/exam style affect your performance? What will you continue/discontinue next semester?
Self Care
How was your mental well-being? Did you take care of yourself? Did you eat well? Did you take care of your mind, body, and soul? Did you experience burnout? What went well? What can you do better? Put yourself first!
Research and Learn What to Expect
Finally, let’s learn as much about our classes as possible to be most prepared. Research is key! Here’s how I research my courses:
Look up past course averages for your professor (eg. UBCGrades).
Read reviews on your professor (eg. Ratemyprof). Don’t take all the reviews to heart, as a certain type of person writes negative reviews. Be conscious of how much you trust these student reviews!
Do a quick search on the student website (eg. Reddit). Other students might have tips or information that may give you more insight.
Review the course syllabus and note important dates and grading information. Use this to gauge how much effort and time will need to be allocated to this class.
Research relevant study tips and preparation methods for each course and their assessment methods (eg. multiple choice vs. written exams vs. papers).
This is how I refresh for my second semester! Take a moment to relax, reflex, and research. Trust me, you will be okay! Have faith in yourself—you got this!
All my best,
N
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