In less than a week it will be spring. The recent winter storm that hit the east coast has the sidewalks and my heat bill looking like everything but spring, but trust me, it’s coming. Toward the end of the month we’ll be in a consistent warm pattern, and we’ll be thankful that the clocks are already moved forward giving us another hour of daylight fun.

For college students, spring started a few months ago, as in the spring semester, which follows winter break at schools using the semester schedule. In my student support work on campus, I frequently remind upperclassmen and advise first-year students that the spring semester moves much more quickly than the fall. Much of this has to do with the aforementioned seasonal shift. Once the sun comes out and stays for a while, students who’ve battled through below freezing wind smacking against their cheekbones will be drawn to the higher temps, and the accompanying carefree feeling of summer, even though it’s not summer. It’s just spring. And because it’s just spring, these students will still have classes, exams and assignments due. But to add to the confusion, colleges and student groups will host a bunch of outdoor activities, concerts, shows, festivals and parties throughout April because it’s 72 degrees outside, so why not?

This is why, a couple of years ago, we decided to help our students #MakeMarchMatter. Because the more that gets done in March, the smoother April and finals in May will be. So, to spread the motivational magic, here are five quick tips to help you live your best academic life in March.

1. Write the paper. 

When is your paper due? Stop! Put the syllabus down. Because if you’re looking at the syllabus then you’re missing the point I’m trying to make. The date on the syllabus is when the professor wants you to submit the paper. And technically that’s when it’s due. But what if that date is April 25th, the Tuesday after the biggest social weekend on your campus? You could do the paper on the 24th. Is that a good idea? You already know the answer. What’s stopping you from doing the paper now? Nothing. Except your mindset. You could do the paper this weekend. And you should. Because that’s a much better look for your schedule and your grade.

2. Read ahead.

Like the above recommendation, the reading flow outlined by the syllabus is to keep you on pace with the class topics. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with reading ahead and then doing a quick review of your highlights or notes before the class sessions. Yes, you may have to preempt binge watching whatever Netflix show you’re stuck on, but again, think of the big picture. The “free time” you think you have now is actually time you should be strategically investing in getting more work done while you're able. You might just mess around and actually become a great student!

3. Get help. 

If you haven’t been to your professor's office hours, formed a study group, went to a tutorial session or had a paper proofread, now is the time to change that. By building in structural supports into your academic routine, you’ll have even more reason to stay focused and not fall behind in your work. You’ll also be exposing yourself to more opportunities to process the difficult material rather than trying to shoulder it all on your own.

4. Make a schedule (and stick to it!). 

Map out all of the spring social activities and put this side by side with your exams, assignment due dates, conferences, travels and any other major events. Now, here comes the moment of truth. You’re not going to be able to attend every single function, kick back, show, concert and after party. There will be some weekends that your academic well-being dictates that you need to be home with your phone turned off (yep, there’s an off button — BONUS TIP!). It’s fine though. There’s next weekend. If you get your work done.

5. Work together. 

#MakingMarchMatter with a friend or two is exactly what college is all about. Coordinate a strong study plan that has you and your crew in a seminar room or study lounge handling your business. Use mornings, between classes and early evenings to put in the necessary time the rest of the month. Maybe you’re in some of the same classes doing work together, or maybe you’re telling them how many chapters you need to read for one of your classes while you hold them accountable for finishing a problem set for one of theirs. Having a serious study partner or team will help you stay motivated when the promise of Friday night’s entertainment isn’t enough. 

Stay focused, and get it done now while you can!