A new term is like a clean page in a notebook. It is full of possibilities. Even if you just made it by this past term and are nervous for what’s to come, it is so important to start each term with a good mindset. High school is what you make of it, so set yourself up for success and be the best version of you. Here are some tips to help you kick off the new term on the right foot!
Get Organized Early
Before the assignments begin to pill up, set up an organization system to help you manage your different tasks and assignments. Reorganize your planner, create a new calendar, use sticky notes to track deadlines, tests, and activities. A little organization can go a long way in helping you stay on top of your work.
Refresh Your Study Habits
Review some of your past test grades in Aspen and ask yourself what worked (and what didn’t) last term. Maybe try studying in shorter bursts of time to keep you focused and give yourself a break. Maybe ask a couple of classmates to study together collaboratively. If you still haven’t found what works for you, try different methods because the earlier you can find out what works the better!
Set Realistic Goals
Instead of the typical vague goals like “do better in math”, set specific goals such as “study math notes for 10 minutes each night.” It’s important to create goals that include ways that you are going to achieve them to make sure it is realistic. Stay consistent and overtime you will start to get closer and closer to achieving your goals and seeing real progress.
Stay Positive and Open- Minded
New terms bring new teachers, classmates, and opportunities. Approach each new class with an open mind and a good attitude. Positivity can make even the toughest of classes and subjects manageable and less stressful.
Take Care of Yourself
Good grades start with good health, both physical and mental. It is critical to get good sleep, eat balanced meals, and balance your time between school and friends. Balancing your schoolwork with downtime and breaks keeps your energy and focus strong all term long.
Get Involved
It’s not too late to get involved in the club you were on the fence about. Join a club, try out for a team, or volunteer for a school event. Being part of the school community helps you meet new people and make school life more enjoyable!
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
They might seem scary at first, but your teachers are here to help you succeed. If you are struggling with a subject or even feeling overwhelmed, talk to a teacher, counselor, or even your classmates. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of hard work and determination to find success in a class.
Some students are excited for what’s to come in this new term! Sophomore Ellie Bellew says, “I have positive emotions going into the new term because I really feel like I have a hang of things, how my work gets done, the most efficient ways of studying, and what teachers expect from me. The new term is a great way to have a blank slate and to put in more effort than the previous term.”
Another Sophomore Ella Falconeiri also claimed, “I think it [the new term] is good because it’s a fresh start.”
Spanish teacher Senor Bagan says, “I feel like I am still not over first term to be honest and I’d say that it feels surreal we are even in November in the first place. The first term went by so fast I would ultimately say I am feeling a desire for things to slow down a bit.”
Starting a new term could feel scary but once your grades go blank, consider it a fresh start. You can determine what type of term you will have with your choices and the amount of work you’re willing to put in. Go into it with a good mindset and a few good habits and watch yourself crush it.
