Even though Thanksgiving break is quick, it is a chance to catch up on sleep, spend time with family and friends and eat lots of home-cooked meals. Getting back into school-mode after this much needed break can be a challenge. As we enter into the final stretch of the semester, final exams and papers are quickly sneaking up on us. Staying motivated during these last 2 ½ weeks or so can be a tricky. We have made it this far and it would be a shame to slack off now. Yes, it gets dark at 4:30 and yes, it is getting colder and colder everyday. It is time to fight through the cold and continue to work hard until the finish!
Here are a few tips to help stay on track and ensure that your semester ends on a high note:
Create a schedule
Having a schedule is key for staying organized and getting assignments completed on time. Be sure to check all of your course syllabuses and write down the dates of exams, presentations and papers. Once all of the dates are in front of you, it will be easy to determine where to begin your work and prioritize what needs to get done when. Finishing an assignment and being able to cross it off your list will feel amazing!
Find a study spot that works for you
It is important to find a study spot where you will be the most productive. There are countless places around campus to study whether it be in Bartle, the Science Library or a booth in the Marketplace. There are even private study rooms in Bartle that can be reserved for groups. This is a perfect place to hold a study session!
Taking breaks is a must
It is crucial to designate blocks out of your study schedules for breaks. One of the best ways to clear your mind is by exercising. The Eastt Gym offers a variety of fitness classes. Options range from Bootcamp to Yoga to Zumba to Spinning to so many other options. Try one of these classes with a friend. If you do not have a gym membership, get some fresh air by walking around the Spine. If it is not too cold, venture out to one of the many beautiful trails in the Nature Preserve for a hike or run. Meet a friend for coffee at Jazzman’s to catch up. In addition, the Dean of Student’s office runs De-Stress December where there are free activities, food and prizes. So be on the lookout!
Eating breakfast
As we have always heard, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Waking up for an 8:30 can be brutal, especially when it is gray and cold outside. I know trying to get to class on time so early in the morning is hard, but eating breakfast will provide you with energy that can help you get through the rest of the day. Eat a granola bar or a piece of fruit like an apple or an banana on the go.
Take time to relax and make sure to get sleep
Remember to leave some time for yourself. Watch an episode of Netflix, read the latest edition of Pipe Dream or Facetime with a friend from high school. Also, getting sleep is vital. The last thing you will want to be doing is pulling an all-nighter writing an essay. You will perform better on tests if you are well-rested and will overall feel better.