Write down all homework assignments, projects, tests, quizzes, meetings and important due dates in a day planner. Keep your planner with you so you can add or change information.
Keep up with all your school work, and always go to class to avoid the added stress of getting behind.
Plan time to relax and take a break from studying. If you plan to spend a night out with friends, budget your time during the day wisely and make sure you get enough work done to make up for the time spent on social activities.
Ask your academic adviser or refer to your school's website to learn about the various clubs and learning communities available to students at your school. According to the 2006 National Survey of Student Engagement, college students who pursued educational activities beyond the classroom received higher grades and experienced greater satisfaction in their education.
Become familiar with the resources available to students on campus, such as gym access, which is typically free for full-time students, the bus or transit system and tutoring services.
Get acquainted with your professors or teaching assistants, and get help during office hours if you are struggling with the material in class.
Get a full night of sleep each night. A sleep study conducted by LeAnne Forquer, a psychology faculty member at Delta State University, found that establishing a routine sleep schedule improves the quality of your sleep. Aim for a specific bedtime each night, and try to establish a sleeping pattern early in the semester.
Practice good eating habits. In her article "Preventing the Freshman 5, 10, 15, 40," nutrition specialist and public health educator Julie Janeway warns against late-night munching, skipping meals and keeping junk food in your room. She recommends drinking plenty of water throughout the day and getting a good source of protein from foods like fish, chicken and eggs.
Learn about the services offered by your campus health center through your school website, and keep the phone number handy. Make an appointment as soon as possible after the onset of a sickness or ailment, especially since college professors do not take absences lightly, regardless of the excuse.