Starting Strong: Tips for a Smooth Fall Semester from a Baraboo Sauk County Campus Student

As fall classes get underway at Baraboo Sauk County Campus, students are filling the campus with a renewed sense of energy and excitement. For many, it’s the beginning of a brand-new chapter. Whether you're a first-year student finding your footing or a returning student aiming to start strong, it helps to hear from those who’ve been there before.

Charlie Stack, a current student at the Baraboo Sauk County Campus, offers some simple but effective tips to start the semester off right:

1. Take a Photo of Your Schedule

“One of the first things I like to do is take a photo of my schedule on my phone,” Charlie shares. “That way, I have a quick way to reference when my classes start and where they’re located.”This small step not only keeps you organized but also helps you get familiar with your weekly routine early on.

2. Don’t Wait to Get Your Textbooks

Next up: textbooks. Charlie recommends visiting the campus textbook center one to two weeks before classes begin. “You want to get them early just in case you run into an issue,” he says. Avoiding last-minute scrambles allows you to focus on learning, not logistics.

3. Walk Your Schedule

For students who are new to campus, Charlie has a smart tip: “Check out all of your classes the week before they start so you know exactly where to go.”Knowing your way around campus ahead of time can ease those first-day nerves and help ensure you're on time and confident walking into your classes.

4. Be Prepared with Supplies

“I make sure I have enough notebooks and pencils,” Charlie says. While some students prefer to take notes on a laptop, he’s found that traditional pen-and-paper works best for him. “There’s research that shows it can be better for learning,” he adds.

5. Start with a Positive Attitude

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, Charlie encourages his fellow students to enter the semester with a positive mindset. “College can be stressful, but it can also be one of the most exciting times of your life,” he says. “Make sure not to forget to have fun and enjoy it!”

Supporting Local Scholars

At the heart of Charlie’s success—and that of many other students—is the community that stands behind them. The nonprofit organization supporting scholarships at Baraboo Sauk County Campus plays a critical role in helping students like Charlie thrive.

As fall classes begin, we're reminded that every successful semester starts with preparation, positivity, and a little help along the way. Thank you for being part of that journey.

Interested in supporting local students? Consider donating to the scholarship fund and help make higher education more accessible for everyone in our community.