5 TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEMESTER: PART 2

Written by: Samantha Berry

Whether your first semester went smoothly or was a bit of a challenge, this is a wonderful opportunity to build on what you’ve learned and make the most of your academic journey. Here are five tips that will help you finish the school year strong and be prepared for success. 

1. Make a Plan
Organization is the key to staying on top of your assignments, exams, extracurricular activities, and goals (including breaks and graduation). A planner – whether it’s a physical notebook or digital app – can help you keep track of deadlines and manage your time effectively. Personally, I love using the Teams calendar, which breaks the day down in half-hour increments and provides reminders. Start filling in your planner with important dates such as your weekly PEC meetings, homeroom, clubs, and events. Then, plan your study schedule and daily tasks around that. By breaking things down into manageable steps, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more in control of your workload.

2. Become a Time Manager
Now that we’ve made our schedule, let’s set some goals to help give you direction and keep you motivated. Rather than overload your To-Do list for the day, try breaking down big objectives into smaller, achievable steps. With clear goals for the day, you can focus better at the task at hand. It may also help to create rewards when reaching those milestones. For example, if you can read through two lessons and submit 3-4 assignments within a day, treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a favorite snack or watching YouTube or playing video games! Rewards not only make your goals more fun but also reinforce positive habits that contribute to long-term success.

3. Find a Study Buddy
A great way to create a study session that you look forward to is by having a study buddy with whom you can get diverse perspectives and active learning, while being held accountable for doing work. Your study buddy may be a parent or sibling, your in-person or CMASAS friends or fellow Club members. A study buddy can help keep you motivated, clarify concepts you might find challenging, and make studying more engaging. 

4. Be an Advocate
One of the most important skills you can develop is learning to advocate for yourself. If you're struggling with a subject, feeling overwhelmed, or need guidance, don't hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to your teachers, Personalized Education Coaches, or peers for support. Seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your CIs are always happy to explain a lesson, adjust an assignment, and even brainstorm ideas of how you might be able to incorporate your interest into a project. Taking charge of your own learning journey ensures you get the resources and support needed to thrive.

5. Keep Summer in Mind
Summer might feel far away but keeping it in mind can be a powerful motivator. Think about your plans—whether it’s traveling, going to camp, or simply relaxing with friends and family. Reminding yourself of what you’re working toward can help you stay focused and push through tough moments. Visualize yourself enjoying your summer, knowing that the hard work you’re putting in now will pay off.

With these five tips, you’re well on your way to a successful second semester. Remember, it’s all about balance—staying organized, setting goals, and taking care of yourself along the way. Here’s to finishing the school year strong and stepping into summer with confidence and pride!