You asked:

Should I be getting ready for next semester while I’m on break -- buying textbooks, reading ahead?

There’s never any harm in being prepared. It’s a great idea to get ahead on ordering textbooks and studying up to make your semester easier. Plus, you might just make your school expenses a bit cheaper if you start early.

• Look for textbooks online. As soon as you get your booklist, start searching for the best prices. Using your textbooks’ ISBNs, look for used copies or rentals to lower your costs. Custom editions might have to be ordered from a specific location, but that doesn’t mean all of your books have to come from the same place. Be sure to check the ratings of sellers -- so you know who you’re buying your books from -- and consult resources such as this Student Discount Directory.

• Order -- early! Not only will you get the cheaper used textbooks before they sell out, but you’ll get a book, period. If it’s a popular one, forget it: Bookstores could sell out if you wait too long, and then you’ll be up a creek without a textbook when you get your first assignment!

• Pick up supplies, such as calculators, lab gear or studio supplies. Search around for discounted items to save more money. Lots of stores hold post-holiday clearance sales.

• Check your class’s website. If a professor needs you to read or do work before the semester starts, it’ll be posted there or sent to you. You can always read ahead, but don’t stress out too much. This is your break, and your mind needs time to unwind. Take advantage of your free time!

Name: Sarah Arsenoff
School: UNC Wilmington
Year: Senior
Major: Marine Biology
Her Deal: This is Sarah's third year as an R.A. for freshmen and international students. She writes for Periplus, a university newsletter for students who, like her, are in the honors scholars program.

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