Unfortunately, spring break is over and reality has hit HARD this time. Now begins the hardest period; those seven weeks until finals. This probably includes beginning those semester long projects and research papers we decided to “put off until after spring break” (I am personally guilty of this). While we may not exactly see the warm, bright, and sunny light at the end of what seems like a never ending tunnel, it will come faster than we know it. Here are some tips for how to save yourself from the stress (or at least procrastinate a little bit longer):

1- Plan and Organize: Map out what assignments need to be accomplished sooner rather than later, what assignments can wait a while, which extra-curricular activities you need to present for, and so on. Doing this will keep your schedule planned accordingly.

2- Get ahead: Warm weather is constantly taunting us here in good 'ole Pittsburgh, you know, right after the winter storm that was thrown at us this past week. If you look ahead at the weather and see that one day it's going to hit above 50 degrees, plan on getting some assignments done so that you can spend your day out in the Commons relaxing, rather than inside doing homework. It's never going to be fun seeing your friends outside soaking up the sun when you're swamped with work inside your dorm.

3. Get outside: In contrast from number two, you should see some sunlight. Nothing can be more miserable than staying inside. Get out and walk around in the city or picnic at the Pointe or sit outside on the field. Not only will you be getting outside to boost your Vitamin D, you will also be benefitting yourself when it comes to assignments because when you're stepping away from your work, it can benefit your productivity.

4. Go to class: Right around this time, it's so easy to press snooze instead of getting up and going to classes and getting work done. But this time of the year is essential, as the semester goes on the course work gets harder and harder. Make an effort to go to class and take awesome notes so when you have the exam or write your paper, you have something to look back to.

5. Talk to your professors: Obviously, your professors are there to help you, so take advantage of them. If you don't understand something in class, make note of it and go up and talk to them after class or go to office hours. If office hours don't work, I can't tell you how many times my professors were flexible enough and met me at Starbucks quickly, for example.

6. Eat, Sleep, and Take your time: Sometimes when we get stressed out the most is often the hardest. But with a healthy meal, plenty of sleep, and some personal time you can accomplish anything.

7. Have fun: Don’t let your assignments take over your life. It is okay to go out and hang out with your friends. All this work can be tiring! It is okay to take a break.

Finally, remember summer is just around the corner and while the rest of the semester might seem like assignment after assignment, you will get through it and be relaxing in the rays soon!