It’s the beginning of May, and for most college kids, that means that it’s alas the dreaded finals week.

Some may view finals as large test or projects that account for significant portions of our grades and basically decide what the final grade in a class will become. The final grade then affects your GPA and, therefore, your future.

And then there is the other side, the side that constantly says cliches such as “my GPA does not define me;" and yes, they are correct, of course a number on a 4.0 scale does not define a person.

So where is the in-between, what is the appropriate way to approach this week?

1. Calm Down

This probably sounds a lot easier said than done. School stresses people out, people who suffer from anxiety disorders are more susceptible to especially get nervous this time of year. Nevertheless, take a deep breath, and calm down. Getting all wiled up for something never helps a situation, it usually just hurts it. Instead of crying or screaming, try going for a walk, or treat yourself to a nice meal, etc. Of course crying is sometimes necessary (guilty), however, just remember that it is okay to take a study break if it means you will become less stressed.

2. Study in increments

I'm sure parents, teachers, professors, friends, etc have all said this before. However, it really is amazing advice. Studying for just a few hours at a time allows your brain to actually retain the information, and will definitely decrease stress levels.

3. Take care of your body

How come it always seems as if I am getting sick right before finals start? I can not be alone in this. Getting sick during finals weeks is an extremely unfortunate timing mistake on mother nature's part. However, instead of wallowing and saying "I don't feel well, this sucks," drink some emergen-c, go to the gym, drink lots of water, and hopefully you will feel better. If not, studying in bed is always a good option!

4. Listen to music

Listening to calming music can almost make writing a paper...enjoyable? But seriously, turn on some music scores and allow John Williams to help you study.

5. Get plenty of sleep

Sleep > everything.

6. Don't give up

Perhaps the most cliche, of all, but it's way too deep into the semester to give up. Wake up in the morning, take a shower, brush your hair, put on something decent, and hit the library. It's really for the best.

(Don't be like Cody).