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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter.

Finals are quickly coming whether you choose to accept it or not. I do think that everyone should take some time for themselves during these stressful times. Whether that means going to UREC to sweat out the stress or crafting DIYs for your apartment, you can also do it while enjoying a TV show to temporarily distract you from the tests you have coming up. Here is a list of lighthearted shows that you can enjoy while you give yourself those inevitable 20 minute study breaks.

 

1. F.R.I.E.N.D.S

A favorite amongst everyone. If you’re anything like me, you have seen every episode already and know the context of every episode if you just jump in at random. After hours of studying, reward yourself with an episode. Maybe turn on a holiday episode to give you an incentive to finish out this semester, so that you can enjoy the break as well!

 

2.  That 70’s Show

Even if you have never seen this show before, you have never heard anyone say that they do not like it, and who does not adore watching Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis from the beginning of their love story? Even though it is set in the 70’s, every episode is still so relatable to us as college students now. The most memorable and favorite episode among my family is the Dine & Dash episode. So, if you need a quick laugh or stress reliever, watch season 3, episode 13 and you will not be disappointed.

 

3. The Office

Who can say that a “That’s What She Said” joke will not make them crack a smile. Watch any episode of The Office where Michael Scott is the Regional Manager and you will be satisfied. Watch any episode for inspiration to do well on your finals so that you nail a job with a staff as incredible as these coworkers. Kelly Kapoor is my motivation during these tough times also known as finals week. She knows how fabulous she is and I definitely need that reminder as I am getting through these last few weeks of the semester!

 

4. New Girl

First of all, who does not absolutely adore Zooey Deschanel? You’ve probably watched her in Elf ten times already since Thanksgiving ended. Check her out in this adorable and lighthearted show where you get attached to every character. Her quirkiness is so lovable and she is such a strong female lead. This show has humor for all different types of people, so no matter who you are, one of the characters on the show will say something that will definitely crack a smile and release some stress off of your shoulders.

 

5. Parks and Rec

While we’re on a strong female lead kick, watch an episode or two of Parks and Rec. This show is very goofy, but the characters are so lovable that you will become attached to each and every single one of them. Leslie Knope’s confidence will literally make you want to change the world. So I promise that if you watch an episode of this show that you will release endorphins and make you believe in yourself that you can successfully finish this week!!

 

Everything in your school and social life may seem like it is all happening these next few weeks. We all have papers, group projects, presentations, and tests to study for. Remember to take some you-time and watch a quick episode of one of these shows to help distract yourself for twenty minutes of all of the stress in your life right now. You are almost done, you have got this! I believe in you!

 

I am a 20 year old Media Arts and Design major with a concentration in Creative Advertising and minors in Music Industry and Communications at James Madison University from Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Hello, it's me. Edel (pronounced like the singer), was previously Assistant Social Editor, Video for Her Campus Media. She graduated in May 2018  from James Madison University in with a double major in Media Arts and Design and Communications Studies. Before joining the HC girl gang full-time she was the Campus Correspondent for the JMU Her Campus Chapter. She's an avid social media user, food enthusiast, and shopping extraordinaire. You can catch her taking a coffee break or binge-watching romantic comedies on Netflix.