Dear Sam,

Take a deep breath, your sanity will soon return.

Starting December 17th, you will again be given the freedom to...well...live! For the past four months, you have been trapped in a revolving door circling around classes that may not be the most thrilling (but you still need to ace), two jobs that you convinced yourself you could take on, endless meetings and venti-sized coffees to keep your eyes open. The good news is, you’ve gotten by with the help of small fleeting moments of spontaneous bliss. Yes, I am talking about the two and a half second visit that Joe Biden made to campus. I am talking about the moments you spirited to Main Street, across the dreaded North campus train tracks, in your PJs, to catch of glimpse of Mr. Joey B ordering a egg and cheese sandwich on a plain bagel. Or the time you and your roommate trudged armfuls of groceries across remote parking lot six, through the bulky doors of the Christiana towers and up 15 floors via elevator only to spill our prized (and now half-melted) ice cream all over the floor of our new apartment. But yes, that moment of pure laughter pulled you out of my head for a few moments of simplicity.

These are the moments that get you through chaotic semesters and they will get you through finals too! Trust me, there are no better bonds than those made over silly exchanges in between late night cramming and senselessly snacking in the wee hours before an exam.

Still, I promise, there is something more to look toward. Beyond the harrowing journey that is finals week, is the most wonderful time of year! Yes, Winter break! This means weeks full of beautiful moments, relaxation and my favorite-- generosity.

However, I must caution you. Do not let these weeks mindlessly pass you by. Appreciate them. Read the book you’ve been wanting to read, spend time with an old friend that's been on your mind and of course, take time to binge watch Grey’s Anatomy! After a semester of being needed in three places at once, you can finally take some much-needed “me-time” and spend some quality time with important people in your life. Reflect. Consider who has been influential to you. Thank them. Bear in mind those who have been detrimental to you, who you were this semester and who you want to be next semester. Be honest with yourself. This may be uncomfortable, you may feel vulnerable or even naked, but it is worth it. Give. We get out of life what we put into it, so be unselfish in your off-time and donate what you can. This certainly does not require you shelling out your life-savings, active service is important and necessary! Especially around the holidays helping hands are always needed at soup kitchens and food banks.

So yes, Sam you do five exams and a ten-page paper due in the next two weeks. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Until then, make your last strides of the semester your best. Earn scores you will be proud of. Accomplish your the goal you set for your self. Study your ass off. And don’t forget to take time to enjoy the moments until you can finally kick your feet up with a cup (or very large mug) of hot chocolate and cheers to a semester well done.

Best of luck!