When preparing for a new semester, it is important to develop an individualized plan that will help you accomplish your goals. I suggest you start by taking some time to reflect on your prior semesters and record what helped you succeed and areas that you would like to improve. Here is some advice and helpful tips I depend on at the start of a new term.

If you are new to Teachers College or the city, I suggest you familiarize yourself with the area at least one week before the semester begins and practice your commute. It would also be helpful to explore TC’s campus because it can feel like a maze as you try to navigate each building. You can scout out ideal study spots around campus that you prefer and formulate backups. This is also a good time to learn the library hours around campus, which will help with your planning. I have listed the hours for the Gottesman Libraries below:

  • Monday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
  • Thursday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
  • Friday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Saturday: 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
  • Sunday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Add your class schedule and classroom locations to your calendar

I prefer to use Google Calendar and sync it to my Apple Calendar to have easy access from any device. I also set reminders for each class within Google Calendar so I do not lose track of time. 

Purchase a new planner for the 2024-2025 academic year

I prefer to purchase a weekly planner so I can see my entire week at a glance. Once you have your syllabi, I advise you to write down all of your assignments, exams, and papers in both your Google Calendar and planner. I personally love to do backwards planning to determine study times for all of my course assignments, then I write this down in my planner to stay organized. 

It is important to include your extracurricular activities on your calendar and planner as well. Whether you will be doing site rotations/placements, fieldwork, clubs, sports, or participating in an off-campus organization, consider the time it will require to prepare for and, of course, the commute. As you consider this, you should take time to form a daily plan of things you wish to accomplish each day and add that to your planner as well. 

Purchase your course materials in advance

I would highly advise that you start by checking out books from the library or consulting with second-year students in case they have books that they do not plan to keep. 

Pre-semester cleaning

It is time to reorganize your room and your study space! Organize your study materials from the prior semester so that you can access them easily if you need to look back on the information. You should also declutter and get rid of anything that you no longer need. It is great to start off the semester with a fresh start.

Have a plan on how you will prioritize your mental and physical well-being

What do you enjoy? Taking a stroll in the park, jogging, going to the gym, reading a book, watching a film, going to the museum? Learn what brings you happiness and how to incorporate that into your week!

Learn your resources

My number one piece of advice is to learn what resources are available to you when you need support. These are a few resources that will support you throughout your academic journey at TC:

Take photos, make new friendships, explore the city, get involved around campus, and take advantage of the resources that TC has to offer! I hope you enjoy the new semester and form great memories!

By: Tyra Vanriel