It's finally happened—you're here and starting your first semester at CU. Whether it's your first time away from home or you're becoming familiar with a new campus, kicking off the spring semester can bring a lot of change.
It’s common to struggle with managing many changes at once, and it’s important to recognize the process looks different for everybody. Here are some tips to help with a smoother transition at the beginning of a new semester.
Develop a routine
Finding consistency can help manage change. Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time each day. Pick a day of the week to check in with a friend or family member. Find a spot to relax between classes or a favorite place to get coffee or a snack.
Get organized
Review the syllabus for each of your classes, and make note of important dates and deadlines in your planner or calendar to keep track of assignments.
Stay in touch
Having people we can talk to and a community to support us helps during times of transition. If you are feeling uncertain or overwhelmed by change, reach out to a friend or loved one and talk it out.
Prioritize your physical, emotional health
Get a consistent amount of sleep (7–9 hours per night), eat regular, balanced meals, stay active and take time to relax. All of these can help the mind and body feel more regulated through times of change.
Find your community
It’s never too early to get involved on campus! Getting involved can lead to new connections with others who have similar interests, giving you a sense of community and belonging on campus. The Center for Student Involvement has more than 500 student groups with a wide variety of interests, and the Rec Center offers fitness classes as well as intramural and sports club teams that are great ways to get involved.
Getting used to changes in our lives can take time, and everyone is different when it comes to adjusting to change. If at any point it feels like too much, Counseling and Psychiatric Services offers workshops and counseling resources to support students.
Learn more about healthy living at colorado.edu/health.
