How to Survive the Rest of the Semester

(From left) Lina Tesfaye and Amna Ali know that sticking together and supporting each other is the only way to survive final exams.

Part One: Things to Avoid     

As November is coming to a close, it is becoming increasingly evident that our few stress-free moments will be even fewer with finals on the near horizon. But of course, we must not only be burdened by schoolwork and studying but also family and their annoying interest in our well-being. If you’re looking for a way to spend your last few weeks of the semester stress-free, here are some things to avoid:

• Anyone who asks which college you’re going to 
• Anyone who asks about your classes
• Anyone who asks about your GPA
• Your SAT scores
• Your ACT scores
• Homework or studying of any kind

Part Two: Family near the Holidays 

Unfortunately, it is considered rude to ignore/avoid your family when they ask you repetitive questions like “Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?” “What colleges are you thinking about going to?” “How are your classes going?” “Have you studied for your finals already?” and all the others we dread. Here are some ways to respond to these questions without really answering them:

Q: “Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?”
A: “I’m in a relationship with this pumpkin pie - it’s fantastic!” Then proceed to interrogate the person about how the pie was made.

Q: “Have you thought about which colleges you want to go to?”
A: “Have you thought about starting a cranberry-sauce-making company? This stuff is the bomb!” Then start a political debate about terrorism.

Q: “How have your classes been going?”
A: “Well, I’ve learned that holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas have become a conspiracy created by the government and retail stores to advertise capitalism and white superiority!” Then continue on and give your family a lesson about the “hero” Christopher Columbus - they’ll be impressed.

Q: “Have you started studying for your final exams?”
A: “You know what, Aunt Carol, I was just about to hit the books!” Then quickly vacate the premises; whether or not you choose to actually start studying is up to you.

Higher education: Some students' textbooks stack taller than their desks. 

Part Three: The Actual Final Exams 

It’s difficult for me to say, and I’m sorry to break it to you, but finals are just around the corner. Dealing with the crippling anxiety and depression caused by the enormous load of work you’ll have to do to prepare is quite difficult, but if you’re not a vegan, ice cream is usually a very good solution. If you actually plan on studying for your finals, remember this - it’s painful, but probably worth it.

1. Make a list: But don’t spend too much time on this (also don’t write “Put textbooks on desk” on your list - just because you accomplished that doesn’t mean you can call it a day).
2. Make a plan: My plan is to focus on two subjects a day (APUSH and Psych for day one; we’ll see where it goes from there).
3. Try: Everyone studies differently, so I guess one good tip is to actually put some effort into it.
4. Rewards: Even if this means a piece of chocolate and a YouTube video every 10 minutes of studying; if it gets you going, I’m in no place to judge.
5. Stop: Eventually give up. Sleep is actually necessary to live so get some!  (We all know that some teachers don’t see it that way, but at least give yourself a little break.)
6. Ice cream: Or any other delicious substitute. Honestly, this step can be dispersed throughout your studying process. Ice cream and snacks help brain waves, obviously.

We may feel trapped in a prison of academic responsibility, but every once and a while, it’s good to think about how lucky you are to be in that position - some people don’t have the privilege of education. Be thankful for what you have, whether it’s good morals or good molars, and remember - finals aren’t the end of the world (if you pass them). Happy studying!