Avoid collegiate chaos; organize before school starts

Organization tips provide the first steps toward a successful school year.

Milwaukee, WI (PRWEB) July 6, 2004 -- While summer has barely warmed up in some areas of the country, college-bound students are looking toward the fall. Lesson One in preparing to head to campus should be to get organized now, for the year, says nationally-respected professional organizer, Barb Friedman.
    
Physical clutter affects you physically and mentally so its to a students advantage to get things in order and have specific places for things like clothes, school and laundry supplies before classes begin," said Friedman, owner of Organize IT, who has assisted organizationally challenged people throughout the United States and has appeared on Dr. Phil as an anti-mess maven.
    
In an effort to provide peace of mind for students and their parents who frantically toss belongings into boxes before they depart for State U, Friedman advises an initial organization strategy.
    
Get out pads and paper -- or electronic organizers -- and begin making 'needs lists as soon as you plan the date youll leave for school," Friedman said. It will help you to see what you have on-hand and what needs to be purchased -- supplies and storage. Theres no need to clutter a dorm or apartment with boxes of laundry detergent when there are only a few feet to spare."
    
Friedman provides the following tips to continue the school year with a neat slate:
1)    Create to-do lists for school activities, living necessities, expenses.
2) Break down list into categories:
• Order, maintain telephone, cable, electric services.           
• Purchase school supplies.
• Plan, purchase room decorations.   
• Stock up on groceries.      
• Wash all clothes, towels and sheets and pack them clean. Purchase as needed.
3) Schedule each item on a calendar -- paper or electronic organizer (your preferred method). Block off the date and time.
4) Plan it. Schedule it. Do it!
5) Check off each task as its completed.

Take time to reward yourself for each accomplishment," Friedman said. When you ease into the school year knowing that youre prepared beyond the classroom, youll enjoy a clear head for studies having already learned a lesson for a lifetime."
                                            
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