By Brooke Brinker, Staff Writer
The end of the semester is quickly approaching, and it can be stressful.
Between long papers, final presentations, and exams, students often sacrifice sleep. But rest is one of the most essential things—especially during these stressful times.
Rest is just as important as studying; without it, you can’t perform your best. It’s important to balance studying, homework, and self-care to maintain focus and energy.
Tammy Zacchilli, professor of psychology, said, “These breaks could involve taking a walk, taking a nap, or spending some time with friends.”
Instead of cramming the night before a deadline, take time to plan your assignments in advance. Staying organized helps reduce stress and makes your workload more manageable.
“Making to-do lists can make the end of the semester feel less daunting, especially if you break things into smaller goals to reach the final one,” Zacchilli said.
Moving forward, after a good night’s sleep, wake up early and eat a healthy breakfast to start your day right.


It’s important to take each day slow and not get ahead of yourself. Take things one day at a time and focus on what you can control.
Write down only the assignments you plan to complete that day. Start working on them in the morning to avoid cramming at the end of the day, which often leads to staying up late and missing much-needed rest.
Always make sure to set aside time for nutritious meals, exercise, hygiene, and a hobby you love.
When it’s time to sleep, put your phone away and get a good night’s rest. Rest is essential; you don’t want to be tired for the busy days ahead.
All the work can feel overwhelming and mentally exhausting. But getting enough rest, managing time, making to-do lists, and practicing self-care can help you power through the end of the semester. You’ve got this!