I know it feels like you just finished co-op and your next co-op is so far away. But, surprise! Despite it only being February, it is time to give your co-op advisor your top five to ten job choices. There is less than one week until spring break, but somehow in that time period you are expected to study for midterms, write last minute papers and finish homework assignments while also finding a job and packing for break. How do you get it all done without going crazy?
Make a to-do list
I am the queen of to-do lists. I have one for every day, and it is even color-coded based on if it is for class, job search, clubs, work, etc. Make a to-do list for yourself for the week, that way you have on paper what you have to do. You can then refer to the list later. My favorite part of the to-do list is checking things off. It might feel overwhelming at the beginning, when you see the list as a whole. But, trust me, once you have crossed everything off, you will feel so much better.
Prioritize the things on your to-do list
Your time is limited, so decide what needs to get done first. If you have a paper due on Friday, but you need to tell your co-op advisor by Wednesday the jobs you want to apply for, do the jobs first and the paper later. Try to figure out how long each task will take and what needs to be done immediately, in the near future and what is due further in the week.
Set realistic goals
Don’t tell yourself you will get everything done in an hour if that isn’t humanly possible. You will feel very defeated when you don’t accomplish everything. Setting realistic goals gives you realistic expectations to work with.
Do something fun
I know it doesn’t feel like you have enough hours in the day, but make sure to take at least one break a day and do something you enjoy. Whether this is watching your favorite television show, going shopping or writing in your personal blog, take a break from work so you can clear your head.
Get the nutrients your body needs
During midterm’s week, food is imperative. You can’t focus on studying or taking that test without a good meal in your system. My dad always stresses the importance of breakfast to me, and during midterms this applies even more. You don’t want to hear your stomach rumble during your test, or your mind to wander to those buffalo chicken wings you smelled last night. Eat a good balanced meal before your tests and you will be all set.
Make sure to sleep enough
I won’t be unrealistic and say get eight hours of sleep, because I know that probably isn’t possible. Try to get as much sleep as possible though. You don’t want to be tired while taking that exam or writing that paper.
Hit the gym
Mind you, I have only been to the Marino Recreation Center a handful of times in my five years at Northeastern, but from what I hear, working out is a great stress reliever. Elle Woods in Legally Blonde says it best, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” Working out might cheer you up a little, and relive some stress. I hear yoga and palates are especially good at calming and relaxing you.
And remember: the jobs that you tell your co-op advisor can change, so don’t stress too much about that. Good luck and just keep telling yourself spring break is only a few days away!