The post-Thanksgiving nap for most people is long over, but for college students, we cannot shake the exhaustion. The happy gatherings of family and reunions with hometown friends feel like a filler episode just before the season finale of the fall semester. As we return to Amherst, the campus greets its students with coldness and darkness, leafless trees, and stuffy classrooms. We are thrown back into the academic spiral.
For those with academic rigor, it may be easier to catch their breath during these times, but for a large percentage of us, opening the laptop is the toughest battle. From my perspective, I believe a mindset shift is needed to survive the remainder of the semester while attempting to see the light at the end of the tunnel—perhaps that light is the lengthy winter break or the holiday season.Â
For those in science or math-related courses, the end of the year will most likely consist of coffee-fueled study sessions for a dreaded two-hour final exam. Meanwhile, those in the liberal arts might expect final projects, presentations, and papers. No matter which side you’re on, anxiety will likely surface, leading to stress, breakouts, sleepless nights, and an overall decrease in academic interest.
I believe the cure for this anxiety is simpler than most people think: it starts with our overall outlook on college and life itself. This finals season is no different from any other, and as the hot priest from Fleabag would say, “It is only temporary,” and we will get through it.
If you are particularly reliant on finals to boost your GPA or pass a required course, I would recommend making sure you be in communication with others—whether that be with a teacher, classmates, or friends. There will always be someone who has taken the class or is currently in it and could help with your struggles. The worst thing you can do is stay silent and isolate yourself from everyone. The trend of locking in and avoiding social interaction will most likely lead to burnout and unhealthy habits that you don’t want to carry into next semester or your future career.
Another tip for surviving these next two weeks is spending time with friends who may live far away and whom you won’t see during the two-month break. I suggest watching a movie, participating in holiday festivities, or simply sharing a meal on campus to fit into your busy schedules.
Finally, don’t forget to keep your body healthy by eating nutritious meals and drinking water. This will help with fatigue and give you more energy. Also, if you are feeling sick or the dreaded college plague is setting in, remember to get your sleep—even if your to-do list is long.
To wrap it all up, while the final weeks of the semester may feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that it’s temporary, and with the right strategies, we can push through. Whether you’re facing long study sessions, deadlines for projects, or a combination of both, maintaining open communication, having the right support, and staying balanced will help you navigate the stress. Remember to take breaks, nourish your body, and prioritize your well-being. Above all, keep in mind that the hard work you put in now will pay off, and the relief of winter break is just around the corner. You’ve made it this far, and with a little perseverance, you’ll make it through.Â
Thank you for reading and enjoy the upcoming holiday season! See you in 2025.Â
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