5 tips to help you succeed before the semester starts
By Victoria Gómez, CAS English Major and Marketing and Communications Student Worker
Starting your semester here at Governors State University (GovState) is exciting, and a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you are a first-year student, transfer, a returning Jaguar, or a new graduate student, these five tips will help you start strong, reduce stress, and set a launchpad for success.
- Get organized
One of the best things you can do before classes begin is get your schedule in order. Write down important dates like tuition deadlines, add/drop periods, and campus events. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments and exams once syllabi are available on Blackboard. Being organized early means you’ll have less to juggle once classes pick up, and it helps you stay on top of your goals all semester long.
- Come to campus and explore
If you’re new to GovState, don’t wait until the first day of class to figure out where things are. Take a day to visit the beautiful campus to find your classrooms, the Library, the Café, and your favorite study spots. Exploring early reduces first-day stress and makes you feel more at home. Even if you’re a returning student, you might discover new services or spaces that make your study life easier.
- Use your resources - they're here for you!
GovState offers a wide range of student resources designed to help you thrive.
- The First Gen Center supports first-generation students through mentoring, events, and community.
- The Latinx Resource Center celebrates and supports Latinx students through events, and resources, providing a welcoming space for connection and belonging.
- Do you need a quiet place to study? Reserve a Library study room to focus without distractions.
- And don’t forget Student Transfer Assistants! They’re here to help transfer students navigate academic and campus life with peer-to-peer support.
Don’t wait until you’re struggling to take advantage of these valuable services.
- Get involved and connect on Jaguar Connection
The University is more than just classes. Getting involved in student clubs/organizations is a great way to make friends, build leadership skills, and feel connected to the campus community. Before the semester begins, check out Jaguar Connection to explore clubs, events, and organizations you might want to join.
- Check your GovState email
This might sound simple, but it’s one of the most important habits you can build. Your GovState email is the one of the main ways professors, advisors, and campus departments will contact you about classes, financial aid, and important deadlines! Make it a habit to check your inbox daily before the semester even starts, so you don’t miss anything critical once things get busy.
Starting the semester prepared means you’ll spend less time stressed and more time making the most of everything GovState has to offer. Try these five tips and we will see you when the semester starts!