LIFESTYLE: CONQUER ANXIETY AND ACHIEVE YOUR SEMESTER GOALS

By Leonard Divine

We’re already into the fourth week of resumption?? Classes have begun in earnest, and it seems like there isn’t even enough time to catch a breather. It looks pretty daunting, doesn’t it?? What more for a freshman who is expected not just to adapt to a new environment but also to get accustomed to new faces and a totally novel experience?

It is normal for one to feel anxious when moving to a new environment, especially a school environment. There is a fear of the unknown and the uncertainty of what to expect for the semester—fear of standing out like a sore thumb and carving a niche for yourself.

Everything looks so foreign, and the loss of familiar surroundings and home will most of the time set in.

University life can be pretty demanding, but who says you can’t enjoy it and even achieve all your goals this semester?? Yes, it may take a while to adjust to your new environment and get a hang of the courses being taught, but you can certainly enjoy this new experience. You can make not just the most out of your university life but also the best!!!

First things first, you’re in an unfamiliar environment; you’ll need to attend orientations before subsequently getting accustomed to how things work at the university. You might also lose your way sometimes, which is completely fine, but don’t worry; with time, you’ll get the hang of things.

The bustle of settling down for classes in a large lecture room could be quite scary at first, but it is something to rather look out for than be nervous about.

Furthermore, you’ll be interacting with people you haven’t met before, and you’ll want to leave a good first impression. Remember, be yourself and take things easy; don’t be pressured to be who you’re not. You’ll gradually make friends and connect with people that fit your personality. Don’t be an island!!! Interact with people and always ask for help when you’re stuck or don’t know what to do.

Classes, registrations, and orientations will definitely be tiring and strenuous, but you must pay close attention to your health!!! A healthy life will definitely be a determining factor in how well you will enjoy your time at the university. Take breaks when you’re tired or stressed out, and don’t underestimate the power of food.

Eat well!! Endeavour to take a balanced diet and cut down on junk food.

Prepare and plan ahead of class! Studies come first; avoid distractions and keep your eye on the goal, which is being the best and achieving your goals for the semester.

Create a schedule that works well for you and be disciplined enough to follow through with it.

Map out a timetable to keep up with lectures and studies. For effective study, the library is a good spot where you can easily concentrate and read well.

Join clubs and engage in extracurricular activities; this will give you the opportunity to meet new people and build a sense of community, but not at the expense of your studies!! Life at the university is fun, but you must know how to create a healthy balance so that every aspect of your life is on track and nothing is left out or suffers as a result of being pressured with too many activities.

There are so many opportunities and activities to anticipate at the university. Make the most of this experience!!!

The semester is also one that students should look out for and be ready to take on new and exciting challenges as it holds endless possibilities. Start the semester by aiming high; don’t limit yourself!!!

You can definitely do it if you set your sights on it. Dream big!!!

At the same time, make your dreams actionable. Whatever you might have resolved to do this semester, put it into action and ensure it’s achievable.

Give priority to important tasks that will help you achieve your goals, and create a schedule where you can plan your week ahead and allocate adequate time to study, rest, and eat.

These three things will go a long way in helping you get ready for the challenges ahead. Eating proper meals is a must!! Get adequate rest and fuel your body with nutritious meals too; it’ll go a long way in enhancing your overall health.

The new semester is a blank slate for both freshmen and sophomores—a new chapter waiting to be written. Set those audacious goals, cultivate a growth mindset, plan effectively, stay motivated, and most importantly, maintain your health. YOU WILL ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS!!!

Remember, every big dream starts with a single step. Take that step today and make this semester your best one yet.