It has come to that time of the year: finals. Luckily I only have one exam to worry about, but all my other classes decided to load me up with final projects, presentations, and papers. Although I’m overwhelmed with all of the work that is being crammed into these next two weeks, I know once I get through it all I can enjoy a month of blissful relaxation at home surrounded by family and friends. Here are a few strategies that help me get through finals week.

1. Take breaks!
   
   It is recommended that for every hour spent studying you take a 15 minute break. This gives your brain some time to absorb the important information that you’re studying
2. Manage your time, and stay organized.
   
   Plan out and organize time slots for each class. Put the assignments that are due the soonest at the top of your priority.
3. Reward yourself.
   
   If you keep on track, and accomplish a majority of your work, take time and reward yourself. Like pick out one of your favorite movies to watch, or curl up with a hot cup of tea and a good book. Spend time besides working on homework, studying, and working on projects to give your brain a creative break. Do something you enjoy.
4. Join a study group -- two heads are better than one!
   
   Why not start/join a study group with some friends and work together? You could discuss key concepts and quiz each other. For some people it’s easier to learn in a group setting.
5. Get enough sleep.
   
   Your body needs sleep to function properly. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before your final, and make sure to eat something for breakfast. You’ll do so much better on the final if you can keep from falling asleep or getting distracted by the hunger pains growling from your stomach.
6. Cry.
   
   That’s right, cry if you need to. There’s no shame in it, in fact a good cry can help your body get rid of a lot of the bottled up stress and anxiety.
7. Drink coffee or tea.
   
   A good cup of coffee or caffeinated tea can always help a study session if you’re having trouble focusing and staying awake.

In the end, as long as you don’t blow off studying for Netflix binging, and manage your time wisely, you should be happy with your outcome. Have high expectations for yourself, and you can easily achieve your goals with hard work. If you half-ass something, don’t expect the outcome to be great. Be proud of the work you accomplished, so you can leave campus with a satisfactory feeling and enjoy your winter break.

Hang in there, and...