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Back to School Tips That Will Set You up for Success

September 1, 2022

Find the books required for your classes ahead of time

Finding your books ahead of time can save you a lot of time and stress. Look out for emails from your professors indicating the required readings and materials. Read through your syllabus carefully and take note of the textbooks required.

Another great way to find your textbooks is through the Ontario Tech bookstore website. Using just your banner ID, you can find the books that have been assigned for each of your courses.

Gather all your school supplies

Many would agree with me when I say that shopping for cute stationery is one of the best parts of back to school. Pens, pencils, highlighters, erasers, etc., all come in a large variety to choose from. One way you can be sure that you get everything and avoid trips to the store once classes begin is by making a list of everything you need. This will help you stay organized throughout your shopping.  

Use a Planner

One of the best ways you can stay organized throughout the semester is by keeping up with all the deadlines. Trying to remember all the due dates can be very stressful. A planner can minimize that stress by having it all written down in one place. You can use either a physical or digital planner. Having your planner on a device that is always accessible like your phone, can be very helpful, as it can be used to plan out other everyday commitments as well.

De-clutter your laptop and other devices from files that aren't necessary

Start the school year with lots of storage space and organized folders. By making space for new documents, you are not only avoiding the hassle of the “storage full” notification but are also making space for new documents and applications.

Come up with a good file naming system and be consistent with it. This will make it easier to retrieve old files if needed.

Tip: If you would like to delete something from your laptop but wish to keep a copy of it somewhere for you to access again, transfer it onto a USB or email it to yourself. This way, you will always have a copy.

Download required software

Take a look at the applications you will require on Ontario Tech’s software portal and download them beforehand. Update any other systems, such as Respondus Lockdown as well. This can minimize tech issues from occurring.

Reset your sleep cycle

While we all know the importance of sleep and the wonders it does to our bodies, a lack of it can negatively impact our mood and energy. If your bedtime has become later than usual, you can begin to adjust this early on before the school year begins, by starting to go to bed 10-15 mins earlier each day.

Good luck to everyone in the coming school year!!

By Maazia Ahmed