As the Spring 2026 semester commences at Fresno State, returning students are stepping foot back on campus. A fresh semester brings a lot of new and recurring feelings.
Whether it’s being excited for a specific class or nervousness about starting something completely new, having strong feelings about the semester ahead is inevitable.
“With the break ending, I felt both nervous and scared because I have new classes and new classmates and I feel like that’s very scary,” said Miranda Mendez, a freshman majoring in biology. “But I do know I’ll be able to adjust.”
The start of a semester can make anyone feel stressed. It is something different that requires adjustment and work while also making sure you stay on top of all your classes.
There’s a lot of balancing every semester and it usually comes down to how a student manages these upcoming challenges.
“I just want to get a routine down and that way I would be able to check Canvas and know when my next exam is and when my assignments are due, that way I won’t miss anything,” said Rennah Friedman, a freshman majoring in agricultural communications.
Not only are students having to focus on their classes and schoolwork, but with the new year and new semester, students are also thinking about what they want to do differently now to help them be more successful and involved with their campus.
“I want to make a calendar to keep track of all my quizzes and to also be able to organize everything,” Mendez said. “I also want to go to more sports games and just go to the Rec Center with my friends and meet new people.”
Having goals and keeping yourself on task with your assignments can really help keep a clear and organized mindset for the upcoming semester.
“I for sure want to stop procrastinating and actually get to my classes on time,” Mendez said.
It is important to be prepared and know what you are getting yourself into. Students at Fresno State don’t only want to try new things this semester, but also get rid of old habits.
“With the courses I have this semester, I really want to start going over the material before getting to class,” said Hana Yang, a freshman majoring in biology.
A new year and new semester also means new aspirations, and resolutions. Challenges are inevitable when it comes to school; it all just comes down to how students approach it.
Whether it’s with improved study methods, planning ahead or just simply showing up to class on time, a new semester means new possibilities and beginnings.
