Back Into The Swing Of School

The seasons are changing. The days of layered long-sleeves, sweaters and coats are just around the corner and kids have thrown on their backpacks and headed off to school. I’m not even a student anymore but every year it’s still hard to accept that school’s back in session. 

For those who are headed back, adjusting from a summer of doing other things like travel, work or socializing can be challenging.

Here are a few tips to help any student get back into the swing of school.

1. Rebuild your routine slowly 

Start with sleep. If the summer has disrupted your sleep routine, start by spending the first few weeks with a set wake-up and/or bedtime. Consistent and quality sleep will have you recharged and ready for everything the school year throws at you.

2. Make lists 

Knowing what you need to do for your classes and extracurriculars is important. When you know what’s coming you can plan for it. This daily planner can be helpful to consolidate your thoughts and to-do list!

3. Set up a support network 

If you’re new, know who you can contact for support. For university and college students, there are often great resources available on-campus for those who look (most student centres or student unions can help you with that information). For those returning after time away, it’s time to get back into the swing of connecting with friends, classmates, and/or student groups. Making sure you have a strong support network will help you get through the midterm and exam seasons.

4. Experiment with your study habits 

The best antidote to procrastination is to get to know your study style. Do you have certain productive hours in the day? What kind of space do you need to study in? Are you a snacker? What kind of learner are you? Contact your guidance counsellor or your school’s learning/academic support centre, they can help you learn to study effectively and efficiently.

5. Create a self-care plan

What nourishes and recharges you? Get to know what you need: for some, it might mean regular trips to the gym, daily meditation, or 3 square meals a day, for others it may mean cutting back on work hours, or 2 days off each week for rest. Regardless, have a sense of your unique needs and try your best to meet them so you’re recharged for the more stressful periods.

Remember that adjustments take time. Give yourself some time to get used to the hustle and bustle of school in September. 

I wish you all a wonderful school year. Happy studies!

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This article was written by Vivian Zhang during their time at Shift Collab.