Finals week is right around the corner as many come upon their final days of the first semester. I went through midterms just a month and a half ago, and it went better than expected. Don't get me wrong, finals and grades are important, but it is most vital that priorities are evaluated during this period of time. Whether you are a freshman just getting this college thing figured out or a senior graduating early and already packing your things, keeping your studies up as well as maintaining shalom in your life are areas worth taking a second look at.

Here's the truth of the matter: you've been studying for these tests and papers for four months. Sure, a little review before the big day is a good idea, but you already have much more of a grasp on the material than you might think. Also, your grade is usually not totally dependent on you acing your final assessment. Study the blurry parts of the compiled information, do your best, and don't sacrifice quality eating and sleeping time. You're going to succeed.

But just for the sake of objectivity, let's say you don't. Let's say you don't do as well on your final as you thought you would. But you put in the work for the rest of the semester. You've always done your best. Some subjects just don't click, and that is okay, too. One grade on your report card for one class is not going to put you out of the running for grad school or your dream job, and it certainly will not define your ability to be happy and lead a fulfilled life. You might even get a silver lining out of the experience by answering an interview or essay question well down the road about self-evaluation, expectations, or learning experiences.

Finals week is not that bad. Ten years down the road, your life will be so different! And that it is an amazing thing. I would encourage you during one of your study breaks (which you should have a few of) to write a letter to your future self. It might put some things into perspective, and it won't be little fun in a few years, either.