Summer marks the end of the Academic Year and the start of a few months of adventure! Summer looks different for everyone. Some people take summer classes, some spend their summer working and others spend time training for different athletic endeavors. Some people like to just have a break. Over the Summer there can be a lot to balance! Remember to nourish your relationships and prioritize enjoyment.

If you are an officer your summer may look a little different. The summer is the perfect time to prepare for your position in the fall. Every break is an opportunity to get organized and ensure you will be able to accomplish all of the goals you have for the upcoming semester. Dedicating a couple hours every week will ease your return to school in the fall and reduce the amount of work left for you during the semester.

Tip #1 Brainstorm for the upcoming semester

Reflect on events that occurred in your previous semester(s) in your chapter. What went well? What did not go well? What events were successful? What events can use updating?

Reflect on chapter performance on your campus and nationally. Did your chapter win a campus or national award? Did anyone in your chapter win a campus or national award? Is there a national or campus award for your chapter, or does an individual want to win?

Reflect on individual performance within the chapter. Is there a need for more resources or programs within the chapter? Do members need more academic support? Do members need more social events to build sisterhood bonds? Do members need more events promoting a healthy lifestyle? Do members need more educational events to develop a broader perspective?

Tip #2 Communicate with your fellow officers/committee and advisor(s):

Meet with your fellow officers to formulate a basic plan for the summer. Create clear expectations for each officer so they know exactly what they should work on. Plan for what must be accomplished over the summer break. Set goals for what you plan to accomplish in the fall semester. Pick a time to meet again and discuss your progress.

Meet with your committee. Create a summer to-do list together. Assign responsibilities to committee members. Discuss when you will meet again to evaluate progress and move forward to the next task.

Meet with your advisor(s). Clarify your role and the expectations of your position. If you are unsure about something, ask an advisor for help. Ensure you are aware of all deadlines for your position.

Tip #3 Create SMART goals:

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. SMART goals will help you clarify the path toward achieving your goal. SMART goals will help you focus your efforts on goals that can be achieved. SMART goals will help you direct your time, so you remain efficient. SMART goals will help you utilize your resources effectively.

SMART goals take extra time to create, but that time is worth it! SMART goals help you break your goals down into bite-size chunks that are more manageable. You will not feel as overwhelmed by the task at hand because SMART goals will help you feel more motivated to work towards your goal.

Tip #4 Keep Sisterhood Alive:

If you are not sure where to start or what to focus on, just ask! Stay in contact with your sisters over the summer to build bonds. The stronger your bonds, the more likely sisters are to give feedback, assist with event planning and attend events!