At the University of Kentucky, dead week is the week before final exams and the last week of full classes. This is the week where you’re literally down to the nitty-gritty in all classes. It's like everything from the semester just shows up at your door and says it's time to get rid of us. Here are a few situations you’re most likely going to go through.
1. The plan
With exams, projects, papers, and other assignments all due at the same time for three other classes, it’s only necessary that some sort of plan is created to tackle it all. You're trying to maintain your sanity and mental composure while completing all assignments to your full potential. This plan must be made strategically and carefully, as you only have so much time to conquer it all.
2. The oh-so-many caffeine runs
Sitting in your seat and looking at your computer screen with every ounce of despair because all you want is your bed and the smallest amount of sanity. Caffeine will literally become your best friend. There are going to be so many times when you’re going to need that large iced coffee or that double shot of espresso in order to give you that extra push to keep moving.
3. Replenish the brain fuel
You know how scientists and nutritionists emphasize the importance of eating food for energy and brain power? Well, it will literally make sense to you as you’re sitting there at 12 a.m. struggling to stay focused on that study guide. If you’re not making your way to Cookout, Taco Bell, or any of the other late night restaurants, kudos to you! Teach me your ways.
P.S., there’s no judgment when you’re stuffing your face at 3 a.m. in front of your laptop.
4. The panic attack
It’s halfway through the week and you’ve been trying to maintain your composure and those stress tears that have been rising. It’s okay. You were due for one by now. It can be quite a lot trying to spend the last few moments with friends and roommates and complete all assignments and daily tasks. But let it all out and try again. Remember to breathe and drink lots of water.
5. I’m done.
The world starts to feel like it’s on your shoulders as those devious assignments taunt you. It’s the point where you really don’t care anymore. You begin to feel like someone who’s been through every struggle in life and you’re just going with the flow. At this point, there's not enough caffeine to restore your energy. You’re just writing and typing away, hoping that everything you’re doing is actually accurate.
In the midst of it all, just stay calm and remember that if you tried your best then everything else will eventually fall into place. Good luck to all of my college students!
