Wait, school starts when?!?

As hard as it is to believe, the Fall semester is quickly approaching. Summer just seems to go by faster and faster but I guess I shouldn't complain, some kids are already back in school I noticed on my recent trip home to Atlanta. With the start of the new semester comes all of the little nuances that we've all tried not to think about. Books, membership fees, liability insurance, and who knows where my stopwatch is. Even though none of these things are the glamorous part of being a graduate student (idk if there is a glamorous side but that's another topic) they are important to remember and take care of before the hustle and bustle of classes, and everything that comes with it, sets in. So here is my handy guide on things you can do before the semester starts so the first few weeks of school can be spent enjoying the 50 page articles your professor assigns and not these frivolous, yet mandatory requirements.

1) Books- Check your schedule and see if there is a link to textbooks for your courses, the earlier you do this the better to insure you have time to research where the best prices are (amazon, chegg, school bookstore) and get it shipped in time before you start getting assigned readings. Check your school library as well, sometimes your textbook is right on the shelf- free of charge.

2) Membership Fees- Are you required to join your state association, NASP or APA? If not, it's great to keep that $120-150 in your pocket for other expenses but membership usually allows access to a number of great resources to be used throughout the year. In addition, if you're going to any of their conferences, membership will usually mean a cheaper registration fee.

3) Liability Insurance- If you're going to be working in the schools this year for practicum or internship, liability insurance is a must. The cost is usually only around $20-25 and membership in one of the organizations listed above will also have discounts for their members with certain companies. After joining NASP or your state association, research what they offer. Take advantage of that membership!

4) Confidentiality Training- Does your program require you to complete any trainings and turn in a certificate to be put on file? HIPPA Training is required for my program, it takes an hour to complete and is SOOOOOOO boring but it's mandatory. Get this done and out of the way now if it's offered through your University's privacy office. One less thing to do!

5) Travel Grants- Sure that conference isn't for another 3 months, but if you're looking for a travel award or grant from your department or graduate student council, the application may be open now. Look into dates and start estimating costs. When financial aid comes through, put money aside for upcoming conferences or events that will bring a lot of expenses. Planning ahead will save you in the long run.

6) Financial Aid- Speaking of financial aid, make sure all of your affairs are in order BEFORE everyone comes back to school and you're waiting an hour in line to speak to someone. Is that waiver listed on your awards summary, is there a loan you don't need, look at this now so there are no surprises. Also check your schedule to make sure you're registered for the right courses, especially if someone does that part for you. We all make mistakes!

7) School Supplies- Clipboard to hide your protocol, user friendly stopwatch (who knows how to use a sports one?), pencils galore. Stock up now while there are back to school sales galore.

Just a few things to consider to make your life a bit easier as the start of the semester comes along. Hopefully it'll make your first few weeks that much less stressful :)