How to Get Back into the School Mindset After Break

It can be incredibly challenging to get back into the swing of things at school after a break filled with relaxation and time spent with family and friends. The transition back into an academic mindset can be daunting and cause some students to fall behind quickly, so it’s important to have strategies to help streamline this process. 

I have a hard time studying in my room at any point in the semester, so I love getting out of my apartment and finding a nice, quiet spot on campus to motivate me. My favorite place to do work is in a study room that students can reserve in any of the libraries on campus, including D.H. Hill, James B. Hunt, Natural Resources and Harrye B. Lyons Design libraries. These areas provide a secluded space for students to work on projects, study, or concentrate on assignments without any added distractions. Sometimes, there’s even white noise being played in the rooms and students can adjust the volume.

Another great strategy I have for getting back in stride academically is creating a list of all the assignments I have due throughout the semester along with a calendar outlining when all my exams are scheduled. I use Notion, which is an app and a website that is free to use and has a very easy-to-navigate and organized interface for making an all-in-one workspace. I separate my lists into different tabs and create a table for everything I want to keep track of with separate columns for due dates, indicating if the assignment is completed and which class the assignment is for. This ensures that no assignments slip through the cracks as every professor has a different method of organizing their class, which can become overwhelming for many students.

 Finally, I love to practice mindfulness and give myself grace during the transition back to school. Wolfpack Wellness has a plethora of events and activities including mindfulness retreats, virtual counseling sessions, craft events and so much more! I love the yoga classes hosted by the Wellness and Recreation Center. There are different types of yoga offered, along with plenty of other fitness classes, so there’s bound to be a class that fits every student’s needs. These options allow me to take time to unwind at a designated time and place. I enjoy how the classes are guided so I can fully relax and enjoy the experience. 

Transitions in life can be challenging in a fast-paced environment, especially in an academic setting. There are plenty of tactics available to ease the discomfort and allow students to flourish in their classes and personal lives. NC State is focused on providing a multitude of resources to ensure the well-being of all students.

Parent Alley, Madison Chema