‘Scoping out the semester
Look to the stars to help with stress and uncertainty
Jessica Mills / Arts & Culture Editor / The USD Vista
A new semester often feels unpredictable. Between new faces, courses and environments, there’s a lot to process. Astrological horoscopes rely on solar and planetary alignments and can offer comfort during times of uncertainty.
Your sun and mercury signs influence your education. The Sun represents one’s core personality and identity. Mercury determines communication and thinking patterns. Online sites, like Cafe Astrology, can determine these placements with one’s birth time and location. Look to your own sun and mercury placements for your fall semester horoscope predictions.
Aries
(March 21 – April 19)
Your academic semester looks promising, Aries. You’ll take on different leadership roles in group work and help build a safe space for peers to voice their ideas. However, it’s important to remain mindful of stress in these scenarios. You frequently bear the responsibility for your team, Aries. Voice your needs, and allow others to share the labor. This is a semester to work on patience instead of impulsivity in schoolwork and relationships.
Taurus
(April 20 – May 20)
Surround yourself with soft sounds and soothing aromas, Taurus. Ruled by the throat and neck, it’s crucial to relax your shoulders and pamper yourself accordingly to reduce tension. Engage in laid-back pleasures like yoga, meditation and walks. Embrace your ability to focus and complete tasks by limiting interference as much as possible. Academic opportunities look to be worthwhile this semester. Approach this change in season with an open mind, and favorable results will follow.
Gemini
(May 21 – June 20)
Fasten your seatbelt, Gemini. Opportunities to study abroad are likely to appear toward the end of the year. Until then, set up your monthly goals and stick to them. Short attention span and concentration may be challenging this semester, but utilizing to-do lists will lessen distraction. Remain patient, Gemini. With consistent effort, your hard work will unlock new achievements.
Cancer
(June 21 – July 22)
Allow yourself time to relax, Cancer. Taking care of others is a natural instinct but may wear you down during exam periods. Finding a balance between studies and personal interests will reduce anxiety. This semester, focus on putting yourself first. It’s okay to say “no,” Cancer. Your contributions are worthy in and out of an academic environment.
Leo
(July 23 – Aug. 22)
The spotlight is on you, Leo. This semester, your writing and creative endeavors will flourish, so spend extra time revising your work. You may struggle with upcoming exams. If available, utilize practice tests. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, Leo. You have all the required tools, so go forth and apply them.
Virgo
(Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
Luck is on your side, Virgo. With the right preparation, exam performance looks to be in your favor. However, working in group scenarios is likely to lead to unproductivity. Find your own study spot, and cut out any distractions. Many sleepless nights look to be ahead. Ruled by the digestive system, take extra care to eat nutritious foods, and avoid excessive caffeine. This will counteract any tiredness and short-term energy.
Libra
(Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Expect to hear advice from a mentor, Libra. Their message will be helpful when experiencing feelings of doubt. Reflect when necessary, but don’t dwell in the past. Your diplomatic and gracious nature will effectively lead many in-class discussions. Preparation is your area of focus this semester. You may even change your approach to studying. Once you find balance, stick to it.
Scorpio
(Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
Your horizons are expanding, Scorpio. Networking in and out of the classroom will bring about necessary growth. This may be out of your comfort zone, but trust that this is pivotal for future careers. Scorpio placements are ruled by the hips. Tension may store in this area of your body, so stretching regularly is important. You are entering a learning phase, Scorpio. Switch up any tedious routines and seek new knowledge.
Sagittarius
(Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
Your efforts are noticed, Sagittarius. Change will occur in professional and academic pursuits. Do not shy away from these possibilities, and it may be just what you need. Your creative self is at its peak, Sagittarius. Channeling your energy toward this area will feel instinctual. Your adventurous manner will shine in the classroom. Do not hesitate to share your point of view with peers and instructors.
Capricorn
(Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Calm your mind, Capricorn. You often let your thoughts wander. Take a breath, and focus on what is in your control. Utilize lecture videos when studying. Sources outside of the classroom will resolve any confusion. You may feel a lack of motivation toward the end of the year. Reading will help to regain your concentration.
Aquarius
(Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Use your time wisely, Aquarius. Many external pursuits will likely peak your interest. Time management will prevent any interference with your educational goals. Effective study habits will drive progress this semester. An Aquarius in athletic or extracurricular activities may be in a successful position this semester. Enjoy your good fortune.
Pisces
(Feb. 19 – March 20)
You spend much of your time daydreaming, Pisces. Taking a creative course will focus this energy into a worthwhile project. Allow disturbances to pass. Competition will appear in various academic ventures. Accept this challenge, but don’t rush the task. Discard any impulsivity, and take a step back this semester, Pisces.
Many students reflected on their horoscopes during the first weeks of class.
USD senior Avalon Miracle, found her Cancer horoscope accurate.
“This describes my first three weeks back at campus so perfectly.”
USD senior and Taurus Austin Smith will use his horoscope to aid in relaxation.
“This was very accurate. I’m working on not allowing academic stresses to get the best of my physical health.”
USD senior and Aries Kate Roberts, believes her horoscope will be useful for future class assignments.
“My horoscope touches on past habits I’ve needed to work on,” Roberts said. “So, this is a reminder to be mindful when working on assignments and group work.”
Despite potential feelings of apprehension, a new semester provides boundless opportunities. Whatever your zodiac sign, looking to the stars could help push you in the right direction.
The following astrological services were utilized to create the fall semester horoscopes: GaneshaSpeaks, MyPandit and PavitraJyotish.