What do gallons of coffee consumption, a mix of black and purple bags under the eyes and an insane amount of work that has reached past the limit of procrastination all have in common? The dreaded and much despised: finals week. This is the time when syllabus week seems like a made up dream. Stress runs rampant and at times, and all the work due at the exact same time can be completely overwhelming. Thoughts of dropping out and becoming a stripper are definitely common, so do not feel alone, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are ways to handle the academic and mental pressures the much dreaded final week brings.

Time management is one of the highest struggles of college students, but it is a struggle for humans everywhere. You are not alone. Procrastination will not be your friend, just like a lack of sleep will not be your friend either. All-nighters are called for once and a while, but if that’s the plan for finals week, you will literally die. (Okay, not literally, but it will feel like that.) Setting aside certain times to study is key, but so is actually following through with that set time. You don’t need to base your schedule around studying, but it does need to at the top of your priority list. Although, scheduling a huge block of time to studying could be counter-productive. Focusing can be extremely difficult, and long cram sessions aren’t always effective. Forty-five-minute study sessions, doing something active and then going back to studying keeps your brain and body active so you don’t just accidentally fall asleep. Breaks are actually a good thing but do not let it turn into a 20-minute study session and a 40-minute break on Netflix or social media.

A quick tip and necessary action to partake in is to eat healthily. Now, I understand the cafeteria is not always the best place for eating well when there’s the option of unlimited fries and ice cream, but good protein, fruit, and water is better for your system and will give you more energy. On the other hand, I do suggest drinking lots of coffee. It is always an energy boost and also delicious. When I asked Julia Monday, a sophomore at Queens University of Charlotte her advice on getting through finals week she said, “Get coffee and a good spot in the library.” And really, that’s one of the simplest ways to get through the week.

One thing to remember is that you are not alone. Everyone in your own university and all students in the United States are going through finals right now. Host study groups and let others quiz you. Utilize your friendships and classmates in your studying. Quizzing someone else is also beneficial to your learning so do not be afraid to help out others. Mary Simpson, a junior at Queens University of Charlotte discussed how it is a relief to know that everyone is going through the same thing. Everyone is trying to make it through, and it helps to go through it together.

My last piece of advice is to stay confident. All the work, tests and thoughts about GPA can be overwhelming, but you still have to believe yourself. You can do this. Try your best on everything, and no matter what happens, you’ll know you did your best. So, good luck to all of you and remember Christmas Break is the light at the end of the tunnel!