The two weeks between Thanksgiving and Winter break are a college student’s equivalent to hell. The tease of getting to go home for the long weekend, and returning to campus for the busiest weeks of the semester stacked with assignments, and let’s not forget, final exams. Here are four tips for getting through the final stretch of the semester.
- Plan out everything.
If you’re like me, saying “I’ll do it later,” never gets anything done. Whether you use a planner, google calendar, old school pen and paper or the notes app on your phone, write everything down! Creating daily “to-do” lists will be your biggest friend during finals.
- Find your perfect study spot.
Get out of your room when studying! You don’t need all of that negative energy clogging up your place of zen during an already stressful time of year. Wander the different floors of the library, try a new coffee shop or sign out a study room in one of your academic buildings. Dedicate time to go to your allotted study spot, and grind it out!
- Do something not related to school every night before bed.
Similar to leaving your room before studying, make sure the last thing you do before bed isn’t school related. You don’t need to go to bed with the stress of schoolwork being the last thing on your mind. Prioritizing quality sleep will help you have the energy to study and do well on exams. Unwind in a way you enjoy, whether that’s reading a book, binging your comfort TV show or hanging out with roommates.
- Prioritize your mental health and practice self-care!
I cannot emphasize this one enough. Your mental health is much more important than any grade. Listen to your mind, body and heart during this period. Know when to take breaks, and be kind to yourself! Make sure you’re doing something nice for yourself every day, and know your limits when it comes to school.