The start of a new school year can be a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and fresh possibilities. Whether you’re diving into a new grade, meeting new classmates, or just trying to stay on top of your game, there are plenty of ways to set yourself up for success! In our latest and greatest back to school guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about beating the back to school jitters, making friends, and perfecting your study time routine. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make this your best school year yet!
Beat The Back to School Jitters
Feeling nervous about heading back to school? The good news is that you’re not alone, and what’s more, we know how to help! Here are some simple (yet effective) tips to ease those butterflies:
Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
Preparation is your secret weapon for conquering any back to school jitters. Essentially, the more ready you feel for the back to school season, the easier the transition will be! Spend some time organizing your school supplies, picking out your first-day outfit, and reviewing your schedule. Knowing what’s ahead can make you feel more confident and ready to tackle the day.
P.S. Don’t forget to pack your bag with all your essentials the night before you go back to school!
Establish a Study Time Schedule Early
A strong study routine can make a world of difference when it comes to academic success. Set aside specific times each day for study and homework (and make sure you actually stick to them). This way, you’ll create a habit that helps you stay on top of assignments without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, consistency is key to making study time a breeze!
Practice Mindfulness
For those unfamiliar with the term, ‘mindfulness’ is all about staying present and calm, and even if you haven’t tried it out before, starting is super easy! All you need to do is pay attention to your senses and breathing to focus on the present moment.
Before going back to school, take a few moments to breathe deeply, meditate, or even journal about your feelings. These practices can help you stay grounded and handle new school-related situations with a new sense of confidence!
Talk Out Anything That Makes You Nervous
Sometimes, all it takes to ease your nerves is a deep conversation with someone you trust. Talk to a parent, sibling, or friend about why going back to school is making you anxious. Chances are, they’ll have some helpful advice or relatable stories to share, and even if they don’t, simply verbalising problems can be super helpful! Talking things out can give you a fresh perspective and a boost of confidence.
How to Make New Friends in the New Year
New year, new you, and new opportunities to meet people and expand your social circle! Here are some great tips for making friends at school, even if you’re a little shy:
Join Clubs and Extracurricular Activities
Joining clubs or extracurricular activities this back to school season is a super fun way to meet like-minded people and make friends (what’s more, they can look great on your resume)! Whether it’s the drama club, chess team, or a sports group, these activities give you a chance to bond over shared interests. Plus, you’ll have tonnes of fun while making friends.
Say ‘Hi’ to Your Desk Neighbours
A simple “Hi” can go a long way! Break the ice and start making friends by introducing yourself to the classmates sitting around you; after all, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them over the course of the term! A friendly smile and a casual question like, “How was your break?” can spark a conversation and make the classroom feel a little less intimidating.
Listen and Learn
When making new friends, listening is just as important as talking. So, show genuine interest in what others are saying, ask questions, and learn about their hobbies and interests! Being a good listener shows that you care and makes others feel valued (which often leads to strong friendships)!
Don’t Rush It
Remember, building strong friendships takes time. Don’t feel pressured to form deep bonds overnight, there really is no rush. Start with casual conversations and let relationships grow naturally rather than rushing into it; it’ll help you seem cool, calm and collected, which are all great traits in a new friend.
FAQ: How to Perfect Your Study Time Routine
To wrap things up and set you up for success, we’re tackling some common questions about creating an effective study time routine to keep your school year on track.
Question: What School Supplies Do You Need?
Answer: Essential school supplies include notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, and a reliable planner or digital calendar. Depending on your classes, you might also need specialised items like a calculator, art supplies, or binders. There’s nothing worse than showing up on your first day and realising you’re missing a bunch of required tools, so make sure to sort this out early.
Question: How Do You Set Up a Study Space?
Answer: Choose a quiet spot with good lighting and organise it with all your supplies within easy reach. And if you’re all about aesthetics, personal touches like a favorite photo or motivational quote can make the space more inviting. Bonus tip: Keep your phone out of sight to stay focused during study time!
Question: What Study Techniques Should You Use?
Answer: Try breaking study sessions into short, focused intervals using the Pomodoro Technique, where you study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. Flashcards, summarizing notes, and practicing past exams are also great ways to really take in all of the course content, but the best study technique is the one that works best for you!
Good Luck, You’ll Do Great!
It’s normal for starting a new school year to elicit a mix of excitement and nerves. However, by preparing early, setting a solid study time routine, and being proactive about making friends, you’ll be ready to excel. So go ahead, embrace the adventure, and make this year your best one yet!
