The 2026 back-to-school season is in full swing! Here are a few tips to help G3 students to start the year on a high note:
Get Organized
Being organized is a great way to keep your semester on track from start to finish. Use a planner or your phone’s calendar to track assignment deadlines. The sooner you build those habits, the easier it will be to stay ahead once assignments ramp up.
Stack Tasks
Starting classes again can feel like a huge time commitment, especially if you’re also balancing work and extracurriculars.
Save yourself some time by task-stacking. For example, try reviewing notes while walking on the treadmill at the gym or listening to class materials while waiting in line at the grocery store. Finding creative ways to knock out schoolwork and life tasks at the same time is key to making a busier schedule feel a bit more manageable.
Connect with a Professor
Professors can have strong connections in the fields you want to work in. They may even know your future employers. Before your semester gets busy, reach out to a professor you connect with to grab coffee, or take the time to introduce yourself by email and share your career goals. Then, once you start applying for jobs, you won’t have to scramble to find a reference, because you’ll already have someone in your corner.
Ready to Go Back to School?
Whether you’re already busy with classes or considering signing up for one, there are many reasons to explore going back to school. Click here to learn more about tuition assistance options available at Virginia’s Community Colleges.
