Every semester I find myself going through the same process. The semester starts out with much excitement and quickly hastens into a 24/7 stress marathon. Acknowledging these 5 stages can prompt you to manage your time more wisely, find unique ways to stay motivated, and do more to relieve your stress. Obviously everyone experiences their own stages of the semester and every semester is not the same, but here are some general ones that I came up with.
1. Bliss
The first couple weeks of the semester are some of the best because you're simply happy to be back. You've had a break from school, classes haven't started to pick up the pace yet, you're back with your friends, and the weather is still warm. Because of all these contributing factors, you are able to do so much more. You can spend more time outside, you're enjoying your new classes, and you have more time to spend with friends.
2. The Wakeup Call
There is a clear point in the semester where you realize that all of your classes require so much time and effort. All of a sudden the snowball effect has occurred and you find yourself buried in assignments and extracurricular activities. During this time it is important to sit down and sort out priorities and learn how to manage your time with your new classes.
3. The Plateau
Throughout the middle of the semester every week seems to be the same. Eventually it is easy to get caught in a very routine lifestyle. Classes start to get boring, everyone is too busy with schoolwork to hang out, and you start to get caught in a rut. During this time it can be hard to stay motivated, but if you power through there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
4. Crunch Time
Once Thanksgiving starts creeping up, the end of the semester is in sight. This means it is time to prepare for final exams and projects. The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving break include an plethora due dates for long term projects and assignments. This is the most important time to stay motivated and to give school your all. Manage your time wisely and don't forget to make time to relieve your stress.
5. The End is Near
Finals, finals, finals. While finals week can be very stressful, there is nothing better than the gradual weight that is lifted off of your shoulders with every passing test. Personally, the months of November through January are filled with some of my favorite times of the year. Looking forward to winter break, and all of the fun that will be had, can make finals week a little sweeter.
