It’s now the end August and its back to school time! Those going off to college for the first time are excited about starting a new chapter in their life, as well as the overwhelm of classes, new schedules, assignments, and waking up in the morning on time for class.
Here are a few suggestions to keep your semester on point and to limit the amount of clutter in your dorm room.
#1 Tip: Make a bucket list of the places and sights you want to visit in your new host city/town. I would probably make 2 lists: a “must see” list and a “would like to visit” list. This way you have the list handy when you have free time available. Having some of the research already done limits the time it takes to make a decision.
#2 Tip: A planner or schedule is a must. It gives you structure as well as flexibility. 2 websites/apps you might want to look into:
- iStudiez Pro – http://istudentpro.com/ This app is available for the iPad, iPhone, Mac computer and syncs between devices. Features include: a schedule planner (color coded options), which allows you to enter all your classes and details (including time, teacher, location); an interactive calendar and iCal integration; assignment review, which manages your homework, due dates, and grades; among others.
- Mint.com – https://www.mint.com It’s a great app and website to handle and organize your finances at school and create budgets… you don’t have to enter your own transactions because mint.com does it automatically. By adding your bank and credit card accounts you can see where you are spending (and saving) money. It also gives you the opportunity to create budgets, track funds, get bill reminders, and set goals.
#3 Tip: A tote with hanging files is perfect for storing paperwork/assignments. This tote will help you collect all of your papers in one place (and its portable too). LABEL – LABEL – LABEL. Take the thinking out of the equation. If the label is there, you won’t have to remember what it is. This makes the time you set aside to do homework easier and quicker so you can focus on other activities. The Cascading Letter File Tote is another option as well. (Both images courtesy of The Container Store).
Organizing guru Peter Walsh said, “When everything has a designated area, you always know where it belongs, which helps you set limits on volume.” You can easily find your items and this helps limit the amount of items you save. Thus, helping you manage your time and get the most out of your semester.
Being organizing at College can be overwhelming, but it can also be cathartic and beneficial. Good luck and stay focused!
Let me know if you have any questions, or helpful insights to share…
