Elizabeth Bachler
Throughout my time in college at the University of North Dakota, I have acquired an abundance of tips, tricks, and experiences that have gotten me through my senior year. Whether it be for my health and wellness, academics, or involvement, there have been a number of things that I am contributing to my success thus far. As the final semester ends, I have found myself reflecting on some of my tips and tricks that I have used throughout the years.
One of the most important aspects to success in college is community. Finding a group of like-minded individuals is crucial to physical and mental wellbeing. A community could look different for everyone whether it be in the form of friends, clubs, or other organizations. I encourage you to surround yourself with your own community, whatever that may look like, as we approach the end of the semester. Research has shown that strong social connections can reduce stress and anxiety. Oftentimes when I am feeling overwhelmed around finals week, I will take time to join my friends to decompress. A sense of community has made my academic performance, as well as my physical and mental health, improve.
In addition to surrounding yourself with a well-rounded community, it is important to prioritize your physical wellbeing. Soon the weather will become warmer, which will allow the opportunity for walks, runs, and various other outdoor activities. Throughout my years in Grand Forks, outdoor activities have been crucial to my health. Throughout the fall semester at UND, there is not much sunshine or warmth. Around finals week during the spring semester, I always make it a point to study outside to increase my vitamin D intake. In addition to studying outside, exercising outside is excellent for you. The Greenway is one of the best places to walk, ride a bike, rollerblade, or run with friends.
There are a number of tools that I have used to improve my academic success throughout the last four years at UND. Our academic advisors are incredibly helpful when it comes to making and verifying class schedules as well as asking for advice when building schedules. I communicate with my advisor at least two times a semester, if not more, and have since I was a freshman here at UND. It is important to note that the best success will be had if you reach out for help prior to the very end of the semester. If you have any questions about upcoming semester registration or even just advice, I encourage you to reach out to your advisor sooner rather than later. The end of the semester is also a great time to utilize office hours that your professors make available. If you are having an issue with any of your classes or if you have any questions, office hours can be incredibly helpful. Professors are more willing to help you to aid in your success when you reach out sooner rather than later.
Though four years may seem like an eternity when you are standing at UND freshman orientation, I can promise you it is not. My past four years at UND have taught me to be a better leader, listener, teammate, coworker, and friend. My biggest piece of advice is even though you may be facing spring semester burn out, I encourage you to strive to do your best and open your eyes and ears to every opportunity you cross. The summer will come and go quickly, and soon you will be preparing for graduation. I encourage you to consider some of the tips I provided as you head into the last month of the semester.
Sadie Blace is a Dakota Student Section Editor. She can be reached at sadie.blace@und.edu.