To-Do List for Students Starting Classes in the Spring
If you're reading this article, then you might rejoice about the fact that the spring semester of your university of choice is longer, if not later, than the others. It should prompt you to spend more time on Netflix, if not hanging out with your old buddies. Nothing wrong about it. As a matter of fact, you would need all the rest. The coursework doesn't differ whether you start classes in the spring or fall.
There are two reasons for starting classes in the spring: you opt for it or your department has a quota for the number of first-year students who must start classes in the fall. You might fall behind by a semester, but you have an option of catching up with your coursemates. You can make it up during summer, but it's the least of your concern at the moment. Let's assume that you didn't check out the modules that you would study during your first semester, even work on a part-time basis. You're not the only one who isn't thinking about the future, but it's not a great loss on your part. You have little time left, which is better than having preconceptions. You must prepare for it. You must be able to come up with a plan as well.
The Pros and Cons of Starting College in Spring
Clubs and organizations have membership quotas, but you don't need to put your name in the waiting list. The difference between the number of students starting classes in the fall and the number of students starting classes in the spring is big, such that you can form your own group with your fellow freshmen. You would integrate with the rest of the freshmen in a year's time, but you don't want to look ahead. Be friendly. Don't assume (or expect) anything. And don't be shy to ask anyone who is looking for a roommate. You may not find a club (or organization) that wants you to become its newest member, but it's fine. It's likely that one (or two) of your fellow freshmen, who will also start classes in the spring, will end up as your best friend(s). You can't ask for something better.
You may not get your dormitory (or housing) of your own choice, but it can turn out to be a blessing in disguise. Let's not talk about spring fever, as you must prioritize your coursework. And you might decide if you want to continue your studies during the summer (or not). What is available may appeal to you, and you didn't do your research thoroughly. (Luck is like your mischievous, old friend, and that character has been patient with you along the way.) And you might meet older students. They turn out to be the people that you are hoping to see often. It won't take a week or two to find out about the lack of noise, as well as how the other students are considerate when it comes to the common kitchen. What more can you ask for?
Scholarship opportunities come next fall. You may be disappointed about it, but don't. An academic adviser can help you on this one. Your parents are a call away. And it may not be too late to look for a part-time job. After all, the coursework is less overwhelming (when you start classes in the spring).
Everyone knows what they are doing, but you must not worry about it. You'll catch up with them sooner or later. You must assess your workload, if it's possible to do other things. Let's not talk about parties, not even the Spring Rush and the activities that go with it. If you're really serious about catching up with the rest, then look at the syllabus. You can read some books in advance, and you don't have to panic about it. (You can continue doing it during the summer.) If you anticipate financial problems, then look for a part-time job. Make sure that it won't affect your focus during lecture hours. It would help you decide if you want to continue your studies in the summer. You should make inquiries before giving it the green light.
This one is for Literature students. You must have read some books that are found in the syllabus, if not browse through the classics that you read not long ago. Don’t stop reading. You might get tired, if not sleepy. Don’t fight it. Time is still on your side. And you need lots of time to think about the books your read. You don’t want to be forced about your thoughts, as there’s a good chance that you can change your mind in a day or two, if not a week or fortnight. There’s another reason: You would make reading a part of your daily routine. You must learn to like if, as the quality of your essays depend on your interest (or lack of interest) in the books that you study (and write) about. If you aren’t enthusiastic about it, then your advance reading would pay off.
In a Nutshell
You’re about to make a transition when you start studying in the spring. This may be your real advantage over the majority of students who start studying in the fall. You would feel less pressure, which enables you to build your confidence in handling the coursework. Don’t waste this opportunity. Good luck.
