I decided earlier this week to blog about something that could potentially be very beneficial for my fellow college students. The last two weeks of a college semester can make you go a little on the crazy side. I experienced this for myself at the end of fall semester this past year. I totally lost my appetite, had a major lack in sleep, and I felt as if I could never catch up on my work. Although I finished the semester satisfied with the out-come, I decided to do things differently this time around. Below are only a few tips that I have found to be helpful during this crucial time.
1. As cliché as it sounds, DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. We are getting down to the nitty gritty of the this semester, which basically means, everything in the world is due on one day. I have recently started a habit of putting due dates in my calendar a day earlier than it is actually due, and believe me, this little method has saved my life more times than I can count and more importantly, my GPA. (yes I put my GPA over my life)
2. Attempt to go to sleep relatively early. I personally find it almost impossible to fall asleep before 11:00-11:30. When I do fall asleep “early” it makes waking up 5x easier than if I had stayed up all night. Sleep is important, especially when juggling studying for finals, work, essays, etc. but, make sure you’re on top of everything to get the minimum of 6-8 hours of sleep a night.
3. Take advantage of all health and wellness services. I am guilty of not doing so myself. Most universities offer these services, for example, at FIU, students can go get a free 15 minute massage everyday if needed/wanted, aroma therapy, counseling, etc. We fund these programs within the fees we pay with our tuition; therefor, it is silly for us to not take advantage. And who wouldn’t want free massages throughout finals week? This is a perfect way to try and relax and calm down during an extremely stressful time.
4. Make a To-Do list. You may be tech savvy and like to have a to-do list on your phone, laptop or tablet. On the other hand, you may be more of a traditional writer and like to have it all written down. Either way you prefer, make sure the list is always in plain sight. This will unconsciously remind you multiple times throughout the day when you scroll or glance past it.
5. Sticky notes are your best friends! Last week I walked into my roommates X’s room to find literally at least 20 sticky notes posted all over her walls and closet. She is a bio major and keeping track of all of her classes, quizzes, and labs obviously have her a little stressed out. She swears to the method as being a fun and friendly reminder to help get her stuff done.
Most universities have about two weeks left including finals week. With this being said, maybe you will find some of the tips I provided to be beneficial. I know that it has saved me from a lot of anxiety and stress. A few other things that I like to do that also seems to help is; drink a lot of water, exercise to relieve stress, take time to “chill out”, eat healthy, and lastly, cuddle with your roommates. The last one may be a little far fetch for those of you who are not blessed with awesome roommates, who just happen to be your best friends. But let me just say, our cuddle sesh’s truly rid of all stress. I hope you find this post helpful and I wish you all the best of luck with the end of your semesters!
berkleywayne 