The excitement associated with returning to school after a summer break results from the positive experiences, connections, and opportunities that school offers. It’s a chance to engage in learning, social interactions, and personal development, contributing to enthusiasm and anticipation.

The excitement many feel when returning to school after a summer break can be attributed to psychological, social, and emotional factors.

• Anticipation of events. School often comes with events, activities, and projects that students look forward to, such as sports competitions, clubs, dances, and field trips.
• Exploration and creativity. School environments often provide opportunities for exploration, creativity, and self-expression through various subjects, arts, and extracurricular activities.
• Learning and growth. A school is a place of learning and personal growth. Many people naturally desire to learn, explore new subjects, and acquire knowledge, which can create excitement about returning to an environment that facilitates this.
• New beginnings. The start of a new school year feels like a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to set new goals, meet new teachers, and engage in new experiences.
• Novelty and change. After a prolonged period away from school, the return marks a change in routine and environment. Humans are often drawn to novelty and change, which can bring a sense of excitement and anticipation.
• Reunion with friends. The School provides a social environment where friends and classmates reunite after the break. Reconnecting with friends can bring a strong sense of joy and excitement.
• Routine and predictability. While some people enjoy the freedom of summer, others thrive in routine. The return to a structured academic routine can bring a sense of order and predictability that is comforting and exciting.
• Sense of achievement. Completing one academic year and progressing to the next can evoke a sense of accomplishment and pride, contributing to positive feelings about returning to school.
• Sense of progression. The start of a new school year can symbolise personal growth and advancement as students move up to the next grade level or stage of education.
• Social interaction. Human beings are inherently social creatures. Returning to school means being part of a community that satisfies our need for social interaction and belonging.
• Structured routine. After a more relaxed schedule during the summer break, returning to the structured school routine can provide stability and purpose, which can be exciting for some.

Starting a new academic year is an exciting time full of opportunities for learning and growth.

Steps to help you prepare and make the most of the upcoming year

• Balance your activities. Participate in extracurricular activities that interest you, but avoid overloading yourself to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Celebrate achievements. Celebrate your successes, whether they’re big or small. Acknowledging your accomplishments can motivate you to keep going.
• Connect with classmates. Make an effort to get to know your fellow students. Forming study groups or participating in class discussions can enhance your learning experience.
• Embrace challenges. Don’t be afraid of challenges. They are opportunities to learn and improve. If you encounter difficulties, seek help from instructors or peers.
• Get to know your professors. Introduce yourself to your instructors early in the semester. This can make it easier to approach them with questions or concerns.
• Organise your materials. Gather all necessary supplies such as textbooks, notebooks, stationery, and any technology required for your courses.
• Plan your schedule. Create a weekly schedule that includes your class times, study sessions, extracurricular activities, and personal time.
• Practise self-reflection. Regularly assess your progress towards your goals. Reflect on what’s working and where you might need to make adjustments.
• Practise time management. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Prioritise your assignments and allocate time for studying, socialising, and self-care.
• Refresh your knowledge. If your new courses build on previous material, take some time to review relevant concepts of earlier years.
• Review your syllabi. Familiarise yourself with the syllabi for each of your courses. Note important dates, assignments, projects, and grading criteria.
• Set clear goals. Define your academic and personal goals for the year. What do you want to achieve regarding grades, skills, and personal development.
• Set up your study space. Designate a quiet and organised study area where you can concentrate on your coursework without distractions.
• Stay engaged and curious. Approach each course with a curious mindset. Be eager to learn and explore new subjects.
• Stay healthy. Prioritise your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you.
• Stay organised. Use tools like calendars, planners, or digital apps to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and important dates.

Remember, a new academic year is a chance for a fresh start and new opportunities. Approach it with enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude.

Rona dela Rosa is the editor of Psychreg. She is an associate professor at the Polytechnic College of the City of Meycauyan.

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