At the end of August, the back-to-school nostalgia rings a bell for all of us. Maybe it’s the smell of new notebooks, the humdrum of the school buses circulating through the streets, or remembering the anticipation of seeing friends you hadn’t seen all summer. While we reminisce, we’ve also been thinking, ‘if only I knew then, what I know now’! With this wisdom freshly stirred, we asked our contributors what advice they would share with students as they return to school:

Amanda Mertins, Patina Polished Living: Take it all in and enjoy it, but stay focused on the end game – the path you want to pursue after you graduate. You know why you’re there, do what you’re supposed to do.

Adrien Cotton, Wellness Professional:  Keep your eyes wide open! It will be the last day in a blink of an eye. Learn as much as you can about things you typically aren't interested in. Develop structure around your studies. Habits win over will power every day of the week. 

Celthia, Bellacara: When you’re on campus, you never know what occasion might pop up. Always be prepared with these items that can freshen you up on-the-go: mascara, lip gloss, travel-size deodorant and perfume.

Megan Brown, Mind the Mat: I say this every year: Ask questions! I was so intimidated asking questions in college. I wish I could go back in time, I would be in office hours weekly. 

Rainbow Kirby, Alexandria Stylebook: Pace yourself and get into a good routine. If you’re in college (and of age) have a glass of water in between those cocktails. I am so happy social media didn’t exist when I was in school! I have seen the havoc and embarrassment that can stem from one messy night. Don’t give anyone the power to sully your reputation online – it can stay there forever. 

Christina Brannon, Alexandria Stylebook: Try to keep in mind that learning is a life-long and very personal endeavor. Of course, there will always be nights of cramming and memorizing for the sake of a grade- but learning is so much more than anything that can be assigned. Don’t be angry with yourself for not being passionate about every subject, find topics that you love and pursue what makes your mind light up with curiosity. Learn from your teachers, your peers, strangers, and the world around you. I promise- the best stuff is found well outside the bounds of a textbook or classroom.

Shara Posner, Chiropractor: On backpacks for kids: Pick a backpack that has lightweight material and make sure it isn’t bigger than your child’s torso. It should be worn high and tight, and not hang from their back. Heavier, bigger books and laptops should be placed closest to the body. And don’t forget to clean out your child’s backpack every other week, preventing the buildup of debris (and crumbs, and whatever other odd items wind up in there…rocks anyone?) 

Have a question for our contributors? Tell us what you’d like to know!