There are only two weeks of classes left in the semester and then it’s finals week! It is easy to get overwhelmed with thinking about all that is due between now and the end of the semester, but there are a number of ways to finish strong. For those of you graduating, it is especially important to maintain your endurance these last two weeks of classes.

1. Organize by what is due

Before scaling the mountain of homework and projects that are due, determine which ones are due first. Tackle each assignment individually and work on them a little bit each day if you have the time. For me, when I try to work a little bit on several assignments at once, I don’t get anything done. Therefore, I find it more effective to start and finish one assignment before moving on to the next one.

2. Prioritize your time

It is true that some assignments take longer than others. For example, if you have an 8-10 page research paper due as well as a PowerPoint presentation, you are better off working on the paper first rather than the presentation. Sadly when assignments pile up towards the end of the semester we have to pick and choose our battles. Therefore, it is important to determine what needs to get done now rather than later.

3. Take Breaks

It is important to take time to rest your brain during these stressful weeks. However, try to use these breaks as mini rewards for yourself. For instance, set goals for yourself by taking a break after every paragraph you write and watching one episode of your favorite show. I enjoy exercising so whenever I feel myself getting a little antsy I go for a twenty minute run. It really helps me to face my assignments later.

4. Eat Healthy

Usually sugar is our best friend during stressful times and it is even harder to resist sweets during the Christmas season. But I urge you to take your health more seriously during these last few weeks of class. Sugar rushes are followed by severe lows and can cost us hours of study time. Not only that, sugar lowers the immune system and makes it harder for our bodies to fight off diseases. Trust me, you don’t want to be sick during finals week. Try to avoid sugary beverages and foods and eat as many greens as you can. Satisfy your sugar cravings with fruits. I highly suggest a banana with a tall glass of milk. Don’t knock it until you try it.

5. Power Through Nap Time

Stress can manifest itself in over sleeping. Although a ten minute nap here and there is healthy, I have found my naps can stretch into two hours as the semester carries on. Try to power through the times you feel yourself growing tired so that you finish your work earlier and get a full night’s sleep. It is better to power through your nap time rather than shorten your sleep cycle. Many college students only nap and never truly sleep. This is extremely unhealthy and can leave you more prone to disease and even weight gain. Therefore, it is important to get your eight hours in at night in order for your overall performance to benefit.