Second times the charm - ways to lock in this semester

Now I don't know about anyone else, but first semester for me was chaotic to say the least. Being plagued by some endless freshers flu, even though it's my second year! The constant never end list of reading and assignments due around every corner, locking in felt virtually impossible, despite spending my life in the Phil Rob. So here are some the things I plan to do differently, to actually lock in this semester.

Now, this is probably very obvious, but actually doing the reading does really help. It can often feel widely overwhelming when you are suddenly presented with 600 pages of academic reading, when the only serious reading you've done in last month is looking at the spoons menu. I have found that breaking it down and reading maybe 50 pages a day makes you feel slightly less like you're going insane. Chipping away at it slowly still allows you to feel like you've actually been productive, whilst still giving you time to get your daily TikTok fix.

Another simple yet highly effective thing is having a good planner. Knowing what is coming up that week will keep the away those Sunday evening blues. I know I always feel out of control when I have no clue what is coming up the next week. Making a habit of checking ahead always eliminates that awkward moment when the seminar leader picks on you, and you have in fact not done the work or done the reading!

Lastly, actually planning my essays! Rather than leaving it until 72 hours before it's due and ignoring the questions from the moment they are set. Looking at them in advance and then actually breaking the planning/ writing process down will save a lot of time, and tears. The panicked messages in the group chat will not being coming from me this semester. Utilise that silent floor in the library, press do not disturb on your phone and let the second semester lock in commence!