Alrighty folks, it’s time to set your alarm clock and lose track of your daily coffee – or tea – intake, because we’re heading back to school.

If you spent most of your summer freelancing it might take some time to adjust to balancing your classwork, on campus activities, and career or work related responsibilities.

And if you’re just starting out, you might have no idea what I’m talking about. But don’t worry! I have some advice that might help make this upcoming semester a little bit easier. At least, I hope it does.

1. Make a list of things you want to achieve before the end of this semester.

Writing down three or four short-term goals could help you figure out what you want in the long term. The list doesn’t have to be anything crazy and you’ll want it to be realistic for your timeline. It could literally be “Find my first long term gig on Pangea.app” or “Make it to my classes on time.”

The point? You can use the list as reference and hold yourself accountable. It also allows you to take stock of what you’ve achieved by the end of the semester. It nothing else, at least you check a few things off that list.

2. Find the Balance Between School and Freelancing

This could be very difficult, especially after having an entire summer that you may have spent most days working. Everyone has different personalities when it comes to the good ol’ work, school, and life balance. But I know you can do it.

Start by writing down your daily tasks. Do you forget things often? Make sure to set an audible reminder on your phone ahead of a deadline, this way you’re not in the middle of drinks with your friends and realize you forgot to send your professor, or client, and deliverable.

3. Minimize Stress

Easier said than done. Remember not to get caught up on the things that you can’t control. Instead, focus on the things you can control. Stress mitigation starts with a semblance of organization, preparedness, and self-care. I’m not the most organized person in the world, but sticking to routines help me with that problem. You can control how prepared you are for anything by getting the work done and studying up. Most importantly, don’t forget to take care of yourself – sometimes that’s hitting up the gym or doing a face mask – either way, do something for you.

4. Try New Things

College is all about exploring and finding yourself. If you’ve just started then you’ll quickly realize that your world is now significantly bigger. This is your chance to figure out what you want your future to look like and find ways to make it happen. Are there professional clubs you can join on campus or is there something else? Like, spending your free time freelancing with a client you found on Pangea.app?

5. Say Yes

This is in line with trying new things, but it stands on its own. Saying yes, to mostly anything, can help build your network. Keep in mind the people who you meet in college can become a professional network in just a matter of years. Look at social events and other gatherings as an opportunity to connect with people you otherwise wouldn’t meet during your daily routine.

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