Are You Suffering From Back To School Blues?

Helpful Hints To Get You Back Into HCC
By Candice Ogden
Staff Writer

Following these easy tips will raise your motivation level for school and get you back into the swing of things around HCC.

Does the semester have you feeling down and out? Not ready to come back to school after a long break? It seems as if we are all dragging ourselves to class lately. Don’t let the semester stress you out.

Going to class isn’t that bad.

Photo by Candice Ogden

What is the most difficult part about it? It could be a number of things like waking up early, buying textbooks, following course requirements, looking for parking in the garage, or finding time to do all of the homework. Whatever the problem may be, there is definitely a solution.

Whether you attend day or evening classes, or two or five classes, getting enough sleep is a must. A well-rested body means a well-rested mind, which is essential in our learning process. Students need sleep to stay awake and focused in the classroom. So set your alarm clocks a little earlier because there is no more sleeping in.

Another good idea for relieving some of that school stress is to do a quick workout in the morning. Even if you only have time for a ten-minute walk, something is better than nothing. Exercise will get your blood and energy flowing, which will help you maintain your focus throughout the day. Any type of physical activity in the morning will give you more energy, help you put things into perspective, improve your sleep, sharpen your mental productivity, and boost your self-confidence.

In order to start and finish a school semester successfully, you have to get it together. Being able to prioritize is key in any academic career. Ask yourself, what is more important, school, work, family, or friends? There is no doubt that these things are all important, but your education should come first. Stay focused on your schoolwork and do not allow yourself to get distracted by anything else.

A good way to do this is to prioritize your schoolwork. Make a list of each assignment and the date that it is due. Also note how much time you feel it will take you to complete the assignments. Make sure that assignments that are due immediately and other assignments that require more work are at the top of your list. A list is a good way to prioritize your work and keep you on top of your assignments so that they are all handed in on time.

You can reduce school stress by becoming more organized. Organize your course work so that you have a different folder or notebook for each class. It is helpful to label and color coordinate your supplies, so you know which notebook is for which class. This way you will keep your assignments separate, clear, and it will help you to find your information more quickly when you are doing your homework.

Also invest in a planner; they are great for students to keep their days and assignments in order. If you are a forgetful person, purchase a calendar so you can write important information down in more than one place. A lack of organization can cause you unnecessary stress and incomplete assignments.

Is it time for a change? I would advise you to come up with a new study space or to change your old one around. Decorate that study space with bright objects that make you feel happy. This way you will look forward to sitting down and studying or doing homework. Be sure that the place you have chosen to do your homework has very few distractions. Remember you want to devote your time and enjoy studying, not be interrupted every five minutes. Now you can be able to maintain your focus and avoid feeling stressed about not finishing your work.

What I have found most helpful in preventing that school stress is your attitude towards school. Attitude is everything. The way you think about school can make all the difference in how you react towards school. Think positively and constantly remind yourself of positive thoughts. Remember the reason why you’re in school in the first place, is for a positive out come in your future.

If you think you are the only one around HCC dealing with the symptoms of coming back to school. You’re not; there are many other students and teachers around school dealing with the same situation.

“I find it hard to come back to school after breaks and to stay focused. I keep myself busy with school work and that is how I stay on top of things,” said HCC student Ana Rodriguez.

Kim Lewandowski, another student here at HCC, agreed that it is also difficult for her to come back to school after breaks.

“I find it easier to get through a new semester when I take the time to get to know my teachers. When I develop a positive relationship with my teachers, I feel more comfortable about coming to class and getting through the semester.”

John Burke also related to the difficulty of coming back to school and starting a new semester.

“Coming back to school means a change in my routine and that is hard for me to get use to. When I think of students who don’t have the opportunity to go to school, it reminds me how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to come back to HCC. Which helps me with my motivation for school.”

Some of our professors even struggle with coming back for a new semester. Professor Addy, a well-known Biology teacher, shared her thoughts on how she copes with the start of a semester.

“I think it is hard to come back after a long break, however coming back with a positive attitude always helps. I look forward to a new semester and meeting new students,” said Addy.

Hopefully now some of your back-to-school blues are eliminated and you have gained some insight on how to get back into the swing of things around HCC. Remember you are not alone; others are struggling to maintain their focus and to keep their stress to a minimum. Keep in mind that optimists experience better circumstances. Optimism can bring a better semester and better grades.