Hello again!
As you can tell by the title, this is the second installment of some advice from a freshman to other [potential] freshmen. Read Part 1 if you'd like some advice on first semester. If not, and you want to jump right into second semester, here we go:
You begin second semester in one of three states: One, after a five-week vacation. Two, after a five-week "vacation" in which you actually and a job and worked. Three, after taking a winter class.
For those in the first state, you will get back in the swing of things by the end of the second week of classes. Not doing anything for a solid month was pretty sweet. Maybe you read a few books or traveled somewhere, as many people often do over winter break, but now it's time to get back to school. Read your syllabi and follow along, because professors were most likely working during their break, so they're the last people who are going to feel bad for you.
For those in the second state, starting will either be a relief or a burden. If you didn't particularly like or job and/or only had it during break, school could be good news for you. You're in classes you'll hopefully be interested in, seeing as how you signed up for them, and you don't have to worry about breaking your back for minimum wage. If you keep your job during second semester, then school will just pile on top of that, which will definitely seem like a burden. Remember to keep your head above water and keep in mind: many people have done this before you and many more will do it after you, so don't think you can't do it because you can. You'll also have a few bucks in your pocket.
For those in the third state, you'll adjust well, but you may burn out within a month's time. Remember that you earned a few extra credits and are ahead of the game, and you'll probably have the easiest transition out of anyone else. Most people who take a winter class together also usually form a special bond, so now you've become closer to friends you've already had or even made new friends.
And so the semester begins. The only difference in terms of workload, extra curriculars, and maintaining a social life between first and second semester is that it's all a bit easier second semester. *cue the deep sigh* You've already joined clubs and sports teams and should definitely join more if you choose to, you've made friends, and you've been acquainted with what college-level homework and tests are like. Yeah, maybe a couple of your classes are harder this semester than they were last semester, but that's nothing you can't handle because you've already done it all while adjusting to a completely foreign environment unlike any one you've ever been in.
Now is a good time to get some GERs (General Education Requirements) out of the way so you don't have to worry about them junior and senior year when you're trying to take classes that fulfill your major. So take some GERs, but also take classes that interest you. I took Acting 1, which is something that I thought I'd never do and definitely doesn't have anything to do with my aspiring major, but it was one of the best decisions I've made in my college career. I had a wonderful experience, broke through my comfort zone, and met so many people I wouldn't have otherwise-- so definitely take something that makes you surprised at yourself for choosing. It'll be worth it.
At this point in my second semester, I'm in midterm week. It's a bit hectic, as professors are trying to ram in as much as possible before the test. But, take it from someone going through this right now, don't be overwhelmed. The key to not becoming flustered is time management. Allot some time to sit down and take a look at your schedule. See when your breaks between classes are so you can study and get ahead on assignments. Don't worry about studying over the weekends either, almost everyone else will be home studying too. Your A is what will outweigh going out with your friends for a weekend or two.
This is where we end for second semester, so far! As the semester passes, I'll update you on how to make the best of it.
Have a great week!
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