The hardest part of the semester is upon us, since Labor Day there have been never-ending classes and I’m honestly ready for a break. Although being on campus is fun with my newfound friends making new memories and exploring everything Iowa City has to offer. I miss my parents, sister, and dog, so I am really looking forward to fall break in November.

While I am from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, my family and I are originally from South Florida. Meaning that I will be able to escape the cold weather that awaits us in November for the sunny Florida beaches. I know that most of my time will be spent seeing family members and shopping for Christmas presents. I will also get to share everything I have done in college from being an Iowa Experience Blogger, taking out-of-the-box classes, joining various student organizations, and being in Iowa City as a college student. I am mostly looking forward to getting a home-cooked meal from my mom for the first time since I moved in. Looking back at it now I never realized how much time had passed until I purchased my flight for fall break. Since fall break is the essence of the giving season, I have my own thanks I want to give to my parents and sister for always answering late-night calls and my friends for being the home away from home support that I need.

Until it’s time for fall break it is important to stay focused on classes to end the semester on a successful note so, I will share a few tips that have helped me so far.

1. Make a weekly checklist of all your assignments for the week to make sure you don’t have to cram out an assignment the night before it is due
2. Find a study method that works best for the individual class
3. Don’t be afraid to take a break to avoid the point of no return

Even though fall break is still a while away I can’t wait for it to be time to go home and see my family, but until then I will be looking towards the future of Halloween, the final few football games, and the beginning of the basketball season. See you soon!