Welcome Back & Happy New Year!
CIS Counseling x IvyPrep – Start Your Spring Term Strong
We hope you had a restful winter break filled with good food, cozy moments, and at least some time away from deadlines. The Spring Term is here — which means new classes, new goals, and a fresh chance to reset your routines (without the pressure of being “perfect”).
Starting a new term can feel exciting… and a little overwhelming. So here’s a simple, realistic guide to help you ease back in and set yourself up for a successful Spring Term — without burning out by Week 2.
1. Start the Term With a Quick Reset
Instruction: Before diving into homework and activities, take 20–30 minutes to pause, reset, and get organized. A short reset at the beginning of the term helps you feel more in control and prevents unnecessary stress later on.
Try this:
- Check your new class syllabi
- Add key deadlines to your calendar
- Set 1 academic goal + 1 personal goal for the term
Example:
- Academic goal: “Stay on top of readings for IB History”
- Personal goal: “Sleep before midnight on school nights (yes, really)”
A clear start helps prevent that “I’m already behind” feeling — even before anything begins.
2. Create a Weekly Routine You Can Maintain
Instruction: Instead of overloading your schedule, focus on creating a weekly routine that you can realistically repeat. A simple rhythm makes it easier to stay consistent throughout a long winter term.
Example:
- Weekdays:
- After school → snack + rest
- 45 – 60 minutes of focused study
- Weekends:
- One longer catch-up session
- One full guilt-free rest day
Consistency beats intensity – especially during a long winter term.
3. Get Ahead on University Planning
Instruction: If university applications are on your horizon, January is the ideal time to plan ahead before coursework and deadlines pile up. Small, steady progress now can significantly reduce stress later in the term.
Focus on:
- Reviewing feedback from December submissions
- Drafting or revising essays early
- Listing scholarships or summer programs you want to apply for
Small steps now = less stress later.
4. Grade 12 Reminder: Spring Term Check-In
Instruction: January is a key checkpoint for Grade 12 students. Taking time now to review your application status can prevent last-minute stress close to exams and graduation. A quick check-in ensures everything stays on track.
Please remember to:
- Confirm all applications submitted in December were received
- Check student portals and email regularly for updates or missing documents
- Review any conditional offers and required grades
- Note upcoming scholarship deadlines (February–March)
If anything feels unclear, book a check-in early — it’s much easier to adjust plans now than later.
5. Don’t Forget: Support Is Always Available
Feeling unsure about your academic plan, university pathway, or next steps? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
- CIS Counseling Office: CIS Campus, Room 312.
- IvyPrep University Lounge: CIS Campus, 1st Floor (Next to Admission Office)
- Online Appointment: Book here.
Here’s to a calm, confident, and successful start to 2026.
We’re excited to support you throughout the winter term – every step of the way 💙
—
CIS Counseling Team x IvyPrep
