The spring semester of college is typically a time full of burnout, although we’re living through a pandemic.
The mood has been irrevocably depressed. We’re at a place where we have friendships from the fall semester but we aren’t necessarily making new ones; rather, we’ve settled into our groups and have become tired of each other. And it’s hard when we don’t have Greek life events or places to go. This would have been the time where we had spring break. We would be boating, going to music festivals and parties. Rather, we’ve been given the substitute of infrequent Wednesdays off for “mental health”. How the University and others across the country have managed spring break and our social well-being is a story for another time.
No one is alone in these feelings, from upperclassmen who’ve experienced a normal Furman to the freshmen in my class. It’s been an incredibly hard few weeks. And it’s really hard to keep yourself in a good place socially, mentally, and physically when dealing with burnout and adverse university policies, and a ruthless academic schedule.
So, what can we do in the meantime?
1. Check in on your friends
Everyone’s been in the same headspace; this weird in-between. Things are going to get better. In the meantime, we need to make sure that we’re taking care of our friends and making the best of the moment before we go home for the summer. We all feel lonely and off, but be the first one to try and bring people together.
2. Make some plans for the summer
This pandemic’s restrictions will wrap up hopefully before next semester. We’ll have more events and it’ll be incredible! In the meantime, get a job or make some plans to meet up with friends over the summer. You can also schedule trips you’ve always wanted to take. When you’re struggling, rather than wallowing, try and make it a productive moment so you can be happier, later.
3.Take time for yourself
This semester I had some health struggles and had to put a lot of time and effort into getting to a state of normalcy and feeling okay again. I had to analyze what made me feel good vs what didn’t. At the end of the day, how you feel is so critical, and you owe it to yourself to seek what makes you feel good.
Working out in the gym has been another of my greatest joys–it really just pulls me out of any funk and brightens my day. Endorphins really are unmatched. Find some friends to go work out, play tennis and stay active. It’ll only make your day better.
While we finish this semester, enjoy the little moments, appreciate your friends, and make sure to take time for yourself. It’s going to fly by, and while next semester is going to be insanely better, don’t forget to live in the now.
Cheers :)