Contributed/ETSU

Welcome or welcome back, Bucs! The time has come once again for a new semester to begin. No matter where you are on your college journey, there are always new things to discover that can make your college experience even better.

One of the biggest issues many students experience heading into a new semester is time management. For incoming freshmen, shifting from a rigid high school schedule to a more flexible college schedule can be jarring. In contrast, upperclassmen may struggle to adapt to a school schedule after completing a summer internship. No matter where you fall on the spectrum of time management, it’s important to find a system that works for you.

There are two key pillars to time management: keeping track of events and deadlines, and balancing work and play. First, find a planning system that works for you, whether it’s Google Calendar or a paper planner — something that allows you to keep track of class deadlines and other club or work responsibilities. Second, make sure you’re resting. Poor sleep health, such as not getting enough sleep or getting too much sleep, can cause you to struggle academically, mentally and physically. Neurologists and psychologists typically recommend an average of seven to nine hours for college-aged students.

Once you’ve got your time managed, how do you fill it? After all, college promises you lifelong friendships in addition to your degree, right?

As simple as it sounds, getting involved on campus is crucial for a variety of reasons. A 2025 study conducted by the University of Houston found that students who frequently engaged with Student Affairs events had higher retention rates and performed better academically than students who did not.

In simple terms? Getting involved on campus, especially if you’re a first-year or first-generation college student, means you’re more likely to stick around for all four years. My advice? Go to Welcome Week events, talk to clubs that table in the Culp and make friends in your classes. Whatever keeps you connected to ETSU outside of academics is the key to success.

Similarly, being aware of the resources available to you as an ETSU student gives you a leg up. Need help with your mental health? Check out the Counseling Center in the Culp! Biology giving you trouble? Sign up for Supplemental Instruction or tutoring at the Center for Academic Achievement. ETSU is full of resources for every kind of student, no matter what kind of student you are.

Lastly, you came to school to learn, so put your best foot forward academically! Your professors and advisors are here to help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your success is their greatest priority.

Have a great semester, Bucs!

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