It’s that time of the year when you can taste summer. In Michigan, it’s finally getting warm outside and everyone is ready to break out their sunglasses. This is the time at the end of the school year where students can find themselves stuck – we know there’s only a few weeks left, but the itis is paralyzing. It’s that final stretch of turning in final papers, doing exams, and receiving final grades before starting summer. Most people, including myself, are excited and ready for summer vacation but there are several academic hurdles you must jump before you get there. Here are 10 practical ways to stay focused during the last leg of the school year.
1. Prioritize! – Be clear about what comes first and when it needs to be done. Make a plan of action and stick to it.
2. Don’t Procrastinate – This one is for me too, seriously! Waiting to the last-minute causes unnecessary stress that can be easily avoided.
3. Stay on top of your email – Professors or classmates might send out study guides, room changes, or other valuable information.
4. Defend your work – Watch your school’s grading system to eliminate any surprises. If there is something you disagree with bring it to your instructor, don’t allow your hard work to be misrepresented because of a clerical error.
5. Study without distractions – Checking your social media feed while studying will only make the process longer. Disconnect while doing school work so you can actually do the work. Put your phone on do not disturb, and there are apps that can help like Flipd or Forest.
6. Take breaks during study time – After 45 minutes to an hour of studying take a 15-minute break. During my study breaks I usually turn on music, stretch, or take a walk. However, be sure to return to your work, and don’t let the break be indefinite.
7. Be conscious about your health – It’s easy to neglect your physical and mental health during this time of the school year. Don’t let preparing for a final exam compromise your health. Get proper rest time, eat full meals, and do physical activity.
8. Reward yourself – This can be done in small ways, like watching Netflix after you complete your tasks for that day or treating yourself to a new outfit. Once the school year is finished celebrate with friends!
9. Make a countdown – Although countdowns don’t practice mindfulness, by keeping you in constant anticipation of the next big event, there are benefits. It is encouraging to know you only have 3 weeks separating you from summer vacation. There are countdown apps you can download.
10. Cut yourself some slack – Know that failing a test, paper, exam etc. is not the end of the world. There is life beyond Pre-Calculus (I desperately needed to know that my senior year) and your total success is not dependent on a final grade.