As Cairn University transforms from empty dorms and quiet walkways into a bustling environment of activity, new and returning students find themselves thinking over the possibilities of a brand new semester. When planners spill over with homework assignments and campus activities flourish, many students wonder how they can get their semester started off on the right foot. To help you get ready for a smooth Fall experience, Cairn faculty, staff and students have given tidbits of wisdom as to what can be done to prepare for an excellent semester!

1: Prioritize Your Space – With small dorm rooms and comfy couches, it’s easy to settle in to do homework on your bed or a lounge couch. However, Professor McAlack reports in his Psychology 101 class that you will get groggy and tired if you do other activities at an area that your brain normally associates with rest, such as your bed. Keep your studying to desks, tables, or even floors – not the bed or couch that you usually nap on!

2: Make a Schedule of Assignments and Events – According to faculty member Hilary Orlando, the best way to stay on top of your homework is to put it on a calendar. Don’t forget campus events, she says! If you know when that awesome ball game or exciting hoedown takes place, you can plan accordingly and be sure that you not only are around for it, but you’ve gotten your homework done as well.

3: Get Involved in a Local Church – Whether you’re a Freshman or a Senior, it’s never too late to get yourself involved in a church near Cairn. Your spiritual and mental health will benefit greatly from investing yourself in a group of believers outside of Cairn. Churches are full of support, wisdom, and chances to celebrate Christ! September 7th to September 9th are Ministry Opportunity Days, when local churches will be setting up booths in the MAC and Heritage Hall. Don’t be shy – grab a pamphlet and chat up some representatives. They are all there because they want to invest in your life and help you to grow in Christ.

4: Eat Breakfast – The temptation to roll out of bed late and skip that morning meal is overwhelming, but studies have shown that breakfast is crucial to getting your system started. If you’re worried about time, don’t be. Breakfast can be something as quick and simple as a bagel snatched from the cafeteria and eaten on the way to class, and it has the potential to be the quickest meal of the day, so don’t skip out on it because you’re in a hurry. Your body will thank you for that early morning fuel!

5: Make Friends – No matter how long you’ve been at Cairn, it’s never too late to make some new connections. You never know what friends will stick with you throughout your life, so don’t be shy. God has blessed Cairn with an amazing community. Reach out and greet a new face! You just might find you have something excellent in common.

Hopefully these tips and tidbits will help as we all start off this new school year. Let’s make this an amazing and blessed semester!