Illustration by Leona Novio

Well, it’s that time of year again. We’re back at school after a long winter break. For those of you returning, I say congratulations! You survived whatever torturous retail or food service job you had and now you’re ready to suck up some more knowledge. For those of you who are new, welcome to the best and worst time of year.

This is the semester where professors are teaching with a newfound gusto, making them a little less forgiving when it comes to the avoidable screw-ups we all make. This semester also goes by a lot faster because there are fewer breaks and of course, the parties aren’t as fun now that the temperatures are down and we’re all showing less skin.

Now that you’re back in the swing of this learning thing, I feel the need to give you another list with some key points about how to have a successful spring semester. I’m doing this partially because we are the Buzzfeed generation and we like everything categorized, and partially because I feel as though you all need this self-help style piece before another how-to-orgasm column. These five things will allow you to grow as an individual, thereby creating a more positive relationship with yourself.

1. “FAMILY” DINNER

I am not referring to the one you have with grandma on Sunday after mass, I’m talking about the one with your friends where there are 10 of you crammed into an apartment and everyone brings something to share.

The family dinner is a spiritual event — one that lifts your spirits while filling your stomach. Being surrounded by your closest friends for a few hours of semi-sober talking and laughter is something that we often forget to plan, but trust me, it’s the most important event you will attend all semester. Bon apetit!

2. A SILENT ADVENTURE

Every six months or so, I drop off the map for 24 hours. I will call out of my jobs, skip class and turn my phone off. I will use this time to pack some food and my favorite hoodie and go climb a mountain, swim in the lake or hike through the woods in silent happiness.

There is something truly cathartic about finding that place where your own pulsing vibrations can align with the ones given off by the universe. You will return to the world feeling cleansed and energized. You will also realize that the important things in life are not always the ones that we tend to worry about the most.

3. TRY SOMETHING NEW

Whether it’s a recipe, a hobby or a job, try something different. The only rule is that it should not be something you can learn in a classroom. This semester, I’m applying to a think tank for the city.

I hope to use my knowledge of human sexuality and politics to help push for a new sexual education agenda. I’ve never done anything like it and I’m utterly terrified, but I know that it will force me to expand my thinking and learn something that school can’t teach me. When you do something like this, you’re simply making yourself stronger. Why not take that leap of faith?

4. HAVE GREAT SEX

This is primarily a relationship-with-oneself column, but what better way to do so than by having a wonderful romp in the sheets? Whether this is with a significant other, a close friend or simply an old FWB that you have fallen out of touch with, having an orgasm should be a priority in life.

Be safe and cast all of your preconceived notions and hangups aside. Don’t worry about being too fat, or inexperienced or having a big butt. Sex is simply one of those times where you should let your body do the talking and your mind go blank. Enjoy each other and enjoy yourself.

5. SPREAD GOOD VIBES

Helping people and being positive are the two most important things in my life. I conduct my days in such a way that these two qualities are ever present in everything I do. Everyone has their own set of values and by practicing those we lift the spirits of ourselves as well as those around us.

Think long and hard about yours and then put them into practice. You can be a teacher, a giver, a do-er, a dreamer or a thinker. Just pick what makes you happy and go for it. By doing so, you are emitting good vibes and that can change the environment around you.

Don’t believe me? Think about finals week. Campus feels tired. And then when it’s all over? The air smells of relief and that anxiety is gone. How we feel affects how others feel, so why not feel good?

I wish you all luck in the coming semester. Strive to be happy.

Anneliese Hucal studies public relations and prelaw. She can be reached at danielcoffey1113@gmail.com and on Twitter @TheSagebrush.