By Mirai Kako
Starting a new semester feels like opening a new chapter I get to reset, challenge myself, and grow in different ways. What I’m most excited about this semester is diving deeper into classes that connect to my future goals in healthcare while also balancing honors-level courses that push my thinking. I’m trying something new by challenging myself with both rigorous science and social science classes, which I hope will sharpen my skills in different areas. My schedule reflects my long-term goal of becoming a nurse by focusing on health-related courses like Human Anatomy and Physiology and HCR 210, while still keeping a strong foundation in general education.
Here’s how my weekly flow usually looks. My classes this semester are HCR 210: Healthcare Ethics , PSY 101:Introduction to Psychology, MAT 114: College Mathematics, Honors Government, Honors Economics, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Senior Seminar, and Deliberating in a Democracy. I usually do my science-based courses (Anatomy and HCR 210) earlier in the day when I’m most alert. Math and economics I save for afternoons since they require steady focus but not as much memorization. Evenings are usually for reading, writing, and review like psychology and government.
I join live lessons when possible, especially for Math, since those benefit from real-time explanations. For other classes, I like reviewing lesson recordings so I can pause and take notes at my own pace. Outside of class, I’m balancing community service and preparing to join activities like the O’Connor Institute Civics & Debate Club and peer tutoring and also Model UN. These keep me connected to leadership, civic engagement, and teamwork, which are just as important as academics.
I plan my days with a digital calendar and a to-do list app. I set aside specific blocks for assignments, and I make sure to break tasks into smaller parts. For example, instead of writing “study for Anatomy,” I’ll list: “review chapter notes, make flashcards, quiz self.” That keeps me from feeling overwhelmed.
Over my time at ASUPD, I’ve learned that setting small, measurable goals each week really helps me stay motivated. I don’t just aim for good grades I focus on daily progress, like finishing two problem sets in math or reviewing one system in Anatomy. To avoid distractions, I use timers and give myself short breaks so I don’t burn out. Since I started, my routine has improved because I know when I focus best and how to plan my day around that.
If you’re starting out, my best advice is to experiment until you find what works for you. Everyone studies differently, and that’s okay. One of the best things about ASUPD is the flexibility you can build a schedule that matches your learning style and personal goals. Stay consistent, don’t be afraid to adjust, and remember that progress happens step by step. You’ve got this!
