Going From “Summer Mode” to “School Mode”

Students studying outside the Frick Center

It’s common among students to feel overwhelmed and thrown off by the sudden change in pace and daily environment when returning to campus after summer recess. Therefore, it’s essential to have a plan, or at least consider how, to make this transition easier for yourself.

This article features advice from Jacklyn Milota, Director of Elmhurst University’s Student Health Services, and myself on how to switch from “summer” to “school” mode.

The most important thing is to take it day by day; just because the Fall semester is just starting does not mean you have to throw yourself 100% into classes, work, clubs, sports, etc.

Milota understands the high demand from the start of the semester and emphasizes the need to “Give yourself grace. Transitions can be hard, so allow yourself time to adjust.”

If you are new to the Elmhurst area, either as a commuter or resident, it is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Take a walk in the areas around EU, find the closest convenience store or gas station, and learn the route to a well-loved food place.

Walgreens and Jewel Osco are a short walk or drive from campus, there’s a Shell gas station 5 minutes down York Street for your emergency gas needs, and downtown Elmhurst offers countless food options for your every mood.

Maybe even check out The Leader’s own shortlist of places on campus worth exploring! This way, once the semester is in full swing, if you need emergency study snacks or medication, to fill up on gas on the way home, or a quick dinner, you’ll know exactly where to go.

Besides getting comfortable with your surrounding area, it’s important to focus on your physical and mental well-being during this transition. The EU Wellness Center is a great Counseling and Health resource to utilize and get used to.

The Wellness Center, located in the lower level of Niebuhr Hall, provides “individual counseling, support groups, wellness coaching, crisis intervention, case management, and referral assistance” for their counseling services. Their health services offer basic medical care such as “physical exams, minor injury evaluation, STI screenings, prescription medications, gynecological care, and vaccines.”

If you find yourself having any physical or mental impacts from school or personal life, reach out or visit the Wellness Center for an assessment or counseling, call (630) 617-3565.

Milota advises EU students to “Take care of yourself! Get enough sleep, eat well, drink water, and move your body.” Remember to put your mental and physical well-being first and take breaks from school, sports, and extracurriculars as needed.

The biggest thing to realize when moving from “summer mode” to “school mode” is that it takes time to fully adjust; you may have some hiccups in the beginning or feel a bit unfocused, and that is completely normal. Just know that the EU has the resources to assist you with transitioning back to school.