By Tzippora ChwatThis summer flew by and No matter how much we want to deny it, the new school year is right around the corner. Here are 7 ways to prepare for the upcoming semester to make the transition back to school just a little bit easier.READ AHEADAs boring and nerdy as it might sound, you’ll be thanking yourself later. Get a head start on the semester by reading some of your books in the more laid back weeks right before and at the beginning of the semester. If your professors have already shared their syllabi, reading those ahead of time may also help prepare you for the upcoming semester. GO SHOPPINGBuy obvious supplies like pens, notebooks, and planner, but also be sure to stock up on post-its, highlighters, and desk accessories to keep your workspace clean. You can also use a new school year as an excuse to revamp your wardrobe. GET ORGANIZEDWrite to-do lists, have a clear calendar, and stock up on highlighters. Print out your schedule or have a copy on your phone. Be sure to designate time in your schedule to study and write it down so you’ll stick to it.PRINT OUT PICTURES TO DECORATE YOUR DORM ROOMDecorating your room with pictures of your friends and family can make an unfamiliar place feel more homey. You can hang them up in frames, on clips, or just stick them straight onto the wall with tape. You can also keep adding pictures as you make more memories throughout the semester.PICK UP A HOBBYHaving a hobby can be a great way to relax during the semester so developing them in the summer is a good way to be proactive. Try knitting, painting, or gardening for productive, fun, and relaxing ways to pass time.RELAXSpend your last few days before the semester relaxing to prepare yourself for the work to come. Go to the beach, a concert, or some museums. Also be sure to meet up with any friends who might be going to other schools in the fall.APPLY TO BECOME A JSCREEN AMBASSADOR ON CAMPUSInterning for JScreen is both fun and meaningful. You will be able to make a huge difference in your campus community!