We are back at school and hitting the books again. It is hard to believe we are already in the third week of classes.

Some of us have another year or two here. Some of us are graduating and moving on to other places after this semester.

A challenge
Regardless of where you are at, here is a challenge for all of you: Make the next fourteen weeks count. Each semester is a chance to be your best, conquer your challenges, and make your time here count.

If you are struggling with classes, seek help! The Learning Commons has resources, so don’t be afraid to use them! There is a new support opportunity in the web portal YOU@IVCC (see article on page 1) that has so many helpful articles on the issues that we college students face. Take a few minutes on the site and see if it can help you as you work through the semester.

Deadlines
If you are graduating at the end of the year, don’t forget to apply for graduation by Feb. 15. The application takes only a few minutes.

If you are coming back next fall, try applying for Foundation scholarships. There are many generous people who donate to help students like you with your education, so why not take them up on it?

Looking ahead
If you are planning your next steps, whether it be a four-year university or a career, you have us all rooting for you.

Relax, take a deep breath, and make your decisions. No matter where you go, know we are all cheering for you.

A final word of advice
Good things take time and hard work.

A wise person once said, “There’s no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs.”

Don’t get discouraged when things get difficult. You will get through it, and you will be stronger because of it. Enjoy the opportunity to learn, challenge yourself, and work towards your dreams.

Have a wonderful semester—you’ve got this!