We have finally reached the end of the semester! Here at Brown, we have a span of time between the end of classes and the beginning of exams, known as “Reading Period.” This window is designed to allot time for studying and the writing of final papers. However, it can also be an opportunity to reflect on the fall semester!
With that in mind, please join me in comparing the beginning of the semester to how most of us feel right now. There is perhaps no better way to do this than to empathize with the Parks Department of Pawnee, Indiana!
1. General Enthusiasm
Beginning: Most of us began the semester with bright eyes and bushy tails, eager to tackle (and enjoy!) a set of interesting classes. We knew that there would be challenges ahead, but we had the energy to face them head-on. The world was our oyster. In fact, we looked forward to the first day of school! Yay shopping period!
End: Oh, how the tables have turned! Deadlines loom. What is sleep? We overeat or are so swept up in our assignments that we forget to. We can’t muster the energy to hang out with friends. This is hibernation mode. The only thing getting us through these last few days is the thought of break, but even that seems like a far-off fantasy.
2. Romance
Beginning: You started out the semester on the prowl for some romance, or wanting to maintain your relationship. You took the time to make yourself look nice. You cared.
End: Romance? Oh, don’t make me laugh! I don’t have time for that right now! Maybe in the spring??
3. Assignments
Beginning: The first few assignments were simple enough. You knocked them out early, trying not to procrastinate. You carefully proofread your essays, multiple times, making sure that you penned the most elegant sentences possible. You diligently studied for your exams, making flashcards and study guides. Bam! This was a piece of cake!
End: You just can’t do it anymore! Most of us are begrudgingly turning in those last assignments before final papers and exams. Preparing for those will (NOT) be fun (sarcasm intended)!!
4. Self-Care
Beginning: There was plenty of time to do fun things at the beginning of the semester: travel somewhere fun with friends, treat yourself to Netflix most nights, go out for dinner at a real restaurant. It was time to “treat yo self.”
End: Most of us have forgotten to treat ourselves! We’ve stopped caring about appearance, sleep, eating, exercise, and the like. We are hyperfocused on doing our best on these finals. However, we must remember to practice self-care, or we will not be operating at peak performance!
5. The Holidays/Winter Break
Beginning: The end of the semester seemed so far away! While there were a few eager beavers who were already excited for the holiday season, most of us didn’t have winter vacation on our radar.
End: Now it’s all we can think about! We can do this! We will get through this! Just a few more days, and then we’re home free!
Best of luck on all of your papers and exams!
