We all know the feeling: It's the middle of spring semester, the weather is a roller coaster, and midterms are coming up. You're exhausted mentally and physically and, if you're a senior, you've got 20+ people up your butt asking, "So, what are your plans for next year?" Everything that could possibly go wrong usually does. This awful, disgusting, negativity you're feeling is commonly referred to as "the mid-semester slump." Spring break is so close, yet so far. You may find yourself questioning, "Am I going to make it?" The answer is yes. Yes, you will.
Here are a few tips and tricks to get yourself through that mid-semester slump and make it to the finish line:
1. In the words of Lorelai Gilmore...
Coffee, coffee, coffee. It's the key to survival, the love of my life and the 8th wonder of the world. It's all-around perfection. Start the morning with an iced coffee from Dunkin, get a little pick-me-up in the afternoon with a caramel macchiato from Starbucks (add an extra shot of espresso if you're feeling frisky) and then wind down in the evening with a fab vanilla cappuccino. Pro tip: Never go decaf.
2. Give yourself a break every once and awhile!
One of the best pieces of advice anyone has ever given me was to never feel guilty for taking time for myself. Overworking not only drains you mentally and physically, but it doesn't really have any benefits. Take a few deep breaths and relax. Pro tip: Power hour naps are literal life-changers.
3. Split time between friends, work, and school.
With all the stress you're feeling it's easy to get caught up in the work and want to spend all your time alone or sleeping. Don't forget to take the time to catch up with and see your friends. You're all probably feeling the same way, so set aside some time to get lunch or go see a movie. Pro tip: Your group study sesh can double as time with friends and time to get work done.
4. Sleep and eat well.
Getting sleep and eating healthy may be the last things on your mind during this busy time, but they are important. Get to bed 20 minutes earlier, prep salads and meals the night before, and don't forget about your well being. You'll thank yourself in the end. Pro tip: Take fruits and veggies as snacks to class. They're quick to prep and will keep you full longer.
5. Find a puppy, cat or any animal around campus and pet it forever.
If I could spend my whole day surrounded by puppies stumbling over each other, chasing their tails, and licking my face, I would have no worries in the world. There's a reason those wonderful, adorable therapy dogs exist. Find an animal and pet it to ease away your anxiety. Pro tip: Befriend someone who has a pet. This way you have petting privileges 24/7.
6. Make lists.
I'm a nerd and a sucker for a good list. I would be totally lost without my planner, sticky notes, and any form of something that helps me organize the million things I have to do. Make a list of assignments, study questions, or whatever you need to help make you successful. Pro tip: Use colorful pens. They're fun and will make you smile more than a boring old pencil.
7. Remember why you're doing it all.
Whether it's to make a lot of money, make your parents proud, or better yourself as a person, remember why you are putting yourself through these hard, stressful times in college. One day it will all be worth it. Pro tip: Try to find the good in everything you do (even those stinking exams you take every other week).
