It is not easy to comprehend that the end of the semester is here. While it is exciting that the holiday season and winter break are just days away, the typical college student’s biggest fear is approaching as well- finals week. While this is a time period that none of us can necessarily avoid, there are definitely ways to get through it. These six methods are essential to surviving this dreaded and stressful week.

1. Eat your feelings, and be proud of it.

When you’re feeling confident about your notes, eat something that makes you happy, like a whole pie of pizza. When you’re feeling less confident about the material, eat something that makes you feel better, like a whole pie of pizza.

2. Take a deep breath.

On a serious note, it is important to take deep breaths. In a moment of stress, trying different breathing exercises can really help with confidence, remaining positive, and staying calm. Most importantly, taking the time to calm down can contribute to a better mindset on test day.

3. Try study habits that you haven’t tried before.

It is common knowledge that everyone studies differently. Some study better with music, some feel confident working with friends, and some find it helpful to rewrite the information they need to know onto paper repeatedly. However, I’ve found it useful to try multiple things, even if you normally have one set strategy for studying. Use Quizlet in order to switch up your normal flash card routine. For essay writing, don’t save all of the typing for the very last minute. Putting your paper down once in a while gives you a chance to view your work with a fresh mindset in order to catch mistakes and contribute new information.

4. Sleep, it is more valuable than you think.

College kids (and for anyone who knows me) can most likely say that a full night of sleep is not a part of their daily schedule. However, it is important to stress how sleep can seriously restore your mindset before a long day ahead. It is inevitable that many of us stay up long hours and sometimes pull all-nighters before tests, so if sleeping isn’t an option, taking a short nap during the day is another way to go.

5. Manage your time and plan ahead.

While we all procrastinate at some point or another, finals week is when students must try their best to avoid succumbing to it. However, it is important that we take breaks and don't cram our brains with information. Ensure that you prepare early, whether that means reading over your notes after class, making study guides, or planning a schedule beforehand.

6. Do something nice for yourself.

Finally, it is so essential to dedicate some time for yourself. After all, we are only human; we can’t survive without a break at some point or another. Dedicate an hour to do something for you. Watch Netflix, listen to a song by your favorite band, or buy yourself a Starbucks holiday drink. Personally, I recommend a Salted Caramel Mocha Espresso.