As you wrap up your semester and finalize your projects, finish your papers and take your exams, chances are you’re feeling a mixture of anxiety and relief. There might even be some excitement mixed in as you think about the spring semester.
As you look ahead, here are a few tips for making sure you’re thriving next year.
Set reasonable goals and reevaluate them often
Goal setting is an important task for any student. When you set a goal, you evaluate what you want to accomplish and you create pathways for success as you move forward. Not sure what you want your goals to be? No problem. They can be simple or complex as long as they’re tailored to what you need.
For example, you can set goals such as:
- Ask more questions in my animal health regulatory affairs classes
- Get a specific grade in my aquaponics class
- Apply for an internship for the summer
- Visit my program advisor or student success coach more often
- Develop my connections with my classmates
Make sure you revisit your goals regularly to modify them as needed. The goals you set in January may be different than the goals that work for you in March. Don’t be afraid to make changes when you need to.
Establish and maintain a study routine
One of the most important things you can do to set yourself up for success in 2025 is to decide how, where and when you’ll study. A study routine is one of the most important tools in any student’s educational toolbox. At K-State Olathe, we have a number of great study spots you can incorporate into your study routine, including lots of cozy spaces in our Student Success Center.
Looking for more study tips? Here are a few resources to get you started:
Seek support from your professors and peers
Your professors and classmates want to see you succeed. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your instructors to talk about any concerns or questions you have. You can also stop by office hours in person or online on a regular basis to stay connected with your professors.
Additionally, be sure to take advantage of our student success coaches. They’re here to help you succeed before, during and after your academic program. If you have questions about which classes you need to graduate, what programs are right for you or what your future career might look like, reach out to schedule an appointment.
Click here to connect with our student services team.
Ask for help before things get too hard
Perhaps most importantly, focus on understanding what your personal limits are and whether it’s time to get help with your academic program or goal setting. It’s easy to wait until your coursework is overwhelming to ask for help.
Instead, aim to reach out early in your program to get the assistance you need. If you’re feeling anxious, stressed or concerned that your class load is too much, for example, talk to your professors as soon as possible to talk about possible pathways forward.
No matter where you are in your academic program, setting goals for the new year is one of the most important steps you can take in your educational journey, so start today.
