Spring Semester: The Final Stretch
Spring Semester: The Final Stretch
Written By Allegra Gonzalez
As the spring semester nears its end, the weight of assignments, projects, and deadlines start to pile up. Motivation fades and exhaustion creeps in. At this point, summer break feels farther than ever. I get it, I also feel it. This time of year can be overwhelming.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is the value of stepping outside. When it’s cold, leaving campus feels like the last thing anyone wants to do, but being stuck in the same four buildings five days a week can take a toll. Lately, I’ve made an effort to bundle up and take a walk around the park or through Beacon Hill, and I’ve noticed a difference in my mood, especially now that the sun is starting to come out!
Another thing that helps is yoga. The Healing and Advocacy Center hosts a yoga class every Wednesday at 4 PM, in PROW 202. It’s a simple way to disconnect from stress, focus on mindfulness, and muster up the power to get through the rest of the week. Even something as small as breathing in a lavender pouch during the session can make a difference in how I approach my workload afterward.
It’s also easy to fall into isolation during this time of year, but being around friends, even in small ways, can make the stress more bearable. Instead of staying in bed and letting bed rotting take over, I’ve found that coffee dates, study sessions, or even a dorm-room movie night can help me feel more connected and motivated.
Beyond socializing, getting involved on campus has been another way to break the monotony of academic stress. Checking EmConnect has led me to events I never expected to enjoy, from free cookie giveaways to activities hosted by clubs like Art Moves, which organizes everything from museum outings to craft nights. Taking the time to do something different, even just once a week, keeps me from feeling like I’m drowning in responsibilities.
I also love decompressing at events hosted by the Healing and Advocacy Collective. On March 19th, there will be a Craft Snatcher and a Make Your Own Zine event. Remember to RSVP!
Of course, none of this matters if I don’t stay on top of my work. As tempting as it is to put things off, I’ve learned that procrastination only makes things worse. The last stretch of the semester is hard, but it’s temporary. Pushing through now means a much smoother end to the year.
So, if you’re feeling drained, just know you’re not alone. These weeks can be tough, but they’re also the last push before the reward of a break. Take care of yourself, stay connected, and keep going. You're almost there! Look forward to sunny days and time with family and friends. Whether your summer includes relaxing at home, an internship, a summer job, or whatever other exciting plans lie ahead, be proud of yourself; you’re doing amazing!