Starting your semester off right: five ways to succeed this school year

Students, are you ready to have an incredible year? 

Whether you’re new to K-State Olathe or returning after a great summer break, there are several steps you can take to ensure you have a successful school year. 

Here’s what you need to know. 

1. Create a plan of action

Any successful semester starts with creating a plan of action. Knowing how you’re going to succeed starts with crafting and organizing your schedule. For example, make sure you know when classes begin, what your scholarship deadlines are, how you can apply for additional financial aid and which classes you need to graduate. StudentAid.gov also offers a comprehensive checklist you can refer to when you’re planning. Many students also find that using a digital calendar or physical planner can be helpful for getting and staying organized. 

2. Meet with your professors

When you’re a non-traditional student, you might be comfortable with a certain level of independence; however, make sure you are intentional when it comes to meeting with your professors. One of the best ways to ensure you succeed in college is to connect with your instructors. They’re the ones who can provide you with specific feedback and note areas you can improve in.  

Not sure what to ask? Don’t worry! It’s OK to meet with your professors just to chat about how your semester is going. Taking the time to meet with your teachers during office hours is one of the best ways you can build your relationship and find ways to communicate clearly. 

3. Avoid procrastination

While this seems obvious, procrastination can happen to the best of us. It’s easy to let household tasks, personal errands or job-related chores take priority over studying, but in order to be successful, it’s vital that you find ways to stay on top of your homework and projects. When you prepare in advance for your exams and essays, you’ll find that the work is much easier to complete. 

“One of the most important steps any student can take when it's time to prepare for finals is to avoid the urge to procrastinate,” said Kimberly Voight, director of student services. “Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to review the material.”  

4. Reach out for help

K-State offers a variety of resources designed to support you on your academic journey. Whether you want tutoring, help understanding challenging concepts presented in your classes or mental health support, it’s important to understand that there are resources in place to ensure that your academic experience is a positive one. 

“Be sure to use the tutoring services that K-State offers,” said Nicole Bedard, student success coach. “Students at the Olathe campus can schedule an appointment to meet virtually with a tutor through this link. I would encourage any student who feels underprepared for an upcoming exam or who may be struggling in their course to meet with a tutor to go over any topics of concern.”  

5. Take “me” time when you need it

Carving time out of your day to focus on self-care can be tricky, but it’s important to focus on your mental health throughout the semester. When you take time to find ways to relax – whether that be reading a book, going on a walk or playing a favorite video game – you'll find that when you’re ready to get back to studying, you’re more refreshed and able to focus. In fact, the CDC recommends that students find at least one way to take care of themselves each and every day. 

Also keep in mind that “me” time doesn’t have to take up your entire day. Take it from our student success coach, Steven Brockschmidt. 

“Taking a 15-minute walk or relaxing in nature can help refresh your brain and improve your focus. There are great walking trails right outside of K-State Olathe, as well as beautiful views of the lake from our new student center.” 

Of course, even when you’re studying hard, it’s important to take regular breaks, as well. 

“My favorite study tip is knowing when to take breaks and not pushing yourself too hard," said Brett Bachelor, student success coach. “Manage your studies in a way that breaks your study time into comfortable intervals, separated by shorts breaks.  This has helped me in the past to maintain focus and productivity by allowing short breaks to prevent burnout and maintain concentration.”  

While the decision to pursue your education can feel big and overwhelming, carefully planning for success provides you with opportunities to have a fun, relaxing and educational fall semester. And of course, if you need anything, your student services team is ready to help support you.