Mid-Semester Check-In

Posted November 3, 2025 by Emmy Mahoney

It is hard to believe that we are already at the halfway point of the semester. Where has the time gone! At this point in time, I usually perform a mid-semester check-in to make sure that I am on track to ending the semester with success. Here are some of the steps I take to complete this check-in.

First, I reacquaint myself with major assignments. This begins with rereading the syllabus to confirm that I have all of the assignments on my calendar. Next, I will review the major assignment instructions to make sure that I understand the project. Upon reading the assignment description, I will write down any questions that I have, so that I can reach out to peers and professors for clarification. At this point in the semester, many of the major assignments are the final project. With this in mind, I review my progress on these assignments, making sure that I am in line with my goals. 

Next, I like to check in with my classes. First, I consider my preparedness. This includes my ability to complete the assignments and readings on time, my ability to participate during class, and the amount of stress that I have had. This will allow me to determine if my current strategies are working for me or if I need to reevaluate. Second, I review my assignment grades and professor feedback. This allows me to gauge whether or not I am meeting my personal expectations of success. If I am not performing to my standards, this would be the time to reach out to professors, friends, and other resources, for help. Third and finally, I like to remind myself of how my classes are helping me achieve my long term goals. In doing so, I am able to reemphasize the importance of the class and motivate myself to finish the semester strong. 

Finally, I like to check in with myself: am I taking care of myself physically and mentally? For my physical health, I make sure that I am getting enough sleep, exercising, and drinking lots of water. Additionally, with the weather getting colder, I prepare myself by getting the Covid-19 and flu vaccines. Nothing is worse than being sick during finals. For my mental health, I make sure that I am taking breaks, seeing my friends and family, and participating in my hobbies. For those of you who have read my “Back to School!” post, I am about halfway done with the scarf that I started! Checking in with my physical and mental health helps to prevent excess stress and burnout.

This mid-semester check-in is an important part of my semester. It allows me to consider how the semester is going and if I need to make any changes. The mid-semester check-in can look different for other students, so it is important to find what works best for you!