New semester, new resolutions: how to approach your new classes

Gaps in your timetable? Turn them into profit.

New semester = new schedule. And sometimes: three hours between two classes you didn’t ask for. Here are things you can do instead of wandering aimlessly around campus:

• Option 1: Sportsticker. For €25 a year, you get access to a huge range of sports. That’s less than €2 a month. Basic math: that’s cheaper than your weekly coffee. The selection is so extensive that choosing is harder than actually exercising. But hey… Luxury problem.
• Option 2: Thriftdate. Your dorm deserves better than “bed + desk + empty space.” Stop by the thrift store and give your room some character. P.S. Feel free to buy that vintage lamp. Just maybe don’t bring it to your lecture. In that case, we recommend stopping by home first.

Not quite found your place yet?

Not everyone feels at home in a program from week 1 -or in this case, semester 1-. And that’s okay. A student club can really make a difference. New people, inside jokes, cantuses you’ll still be talking about year after year. More of the quiet type? Try sitting next to someone you don’t know in the lecture hall. Talk to them, and before you know it, a new friendship will form. Everyone is there for the same reason. You’re not the only one who finds it a bit awkward sometimes.

Just. Go. To. Your. Classes.

We know. It’s tough. Sometimes boring. Sometimes really not what you’d hoped for. But ask yourself one simple question: What’s worse? Sitting in class for 2 hours… or having to figure everything out for yourself for 6 hours afterwards? Exactly. Being present is half the battle. Write everything down (yes, with a pen) It sounds old-fashioned, but it works. Research shows that handwritten notes stick better than typed ones because you process what you write more actively.

This way you have:

• Less distractions
• No more “I’ll just quickly check Instagram”
• More focus

Consider it a mini digital detox!

Your motivation can be zero. Your bank account preferably not.

We all know them… “Things you need” TikToks, spontaneous Uber Eats moments, a Friday night drink that suddenly costs 40 euros… And actually, being a student is expensive enough as it is. So try to avoid unnecessary expenses. Organise a budget dinner party with friends, have a movie night at home, or stop by GATE15 to pick up a STAN Student Map with the best picnic spots. So maybe try (re)discovering Antwerp! The sun will be back soon, but you don’t have to wait for 20 degrees to explore the city. It’s is full of hidden streets, squares, and spots you can explore for free. Don’t feel like searching for yourself? No worries. We’ve already done the homework here.

You don’t have to be a perfect student

A new semester doesn’t have to mean perfection. With a few adjustments to your habits, you can become a true model student in the coming months. (Or at least something close to it.) We know it’s not easy, so we’re giving you this little reminder that we’re right behind you. You got this – we know you do!