Navigating the Post-Thanksgiving Semester Crunch

During what can feel like an extremely long fall semester, Thanksgiving break, a few days to a week, can feel like the light at the end of the tunnel to help motivate students and professors alike to push toward the finish line. As the Student Ambassador for the U.S.A.

I believe it was my duty to write this specifically for students in the U.S.A. experiencing the post-Thanksgiving holiday slog. Having experienced this from 2016-2023, I know how hard it can be.

Despite being so close to the end of the calendar year, there are still at least two or three weeks of classes before the final exams to mark the actual end of the semester. That said, it is super easy to fall into the trap of carrying that “Turkey Day” relaxation through those final weeks of the term, which means getting those final assignments, essays, and projects done before final exams in mid-late December.

Here are three pieces of advice to help you finish the semester strong and enjoy a well-deserved winter break:

1. Plan Ahead to Stay on Track:

Looking ahead during or shortly after the Thanksgiving break is essential to know what you’ll have to do for each class before the final exams. The end of the semester is often a whirlwind of assignments as professors rush to cover course material and create the final exams. Professors also typically aim to grade and return those final assignments before finals, allowing students to seek clarification during office hours and study challenging material they may not have fully understood earlier in the semester. That being said, you’ll likely have quite a few assignments due within the first few days after you return, which can be a pretty abrupt welcome back if you aren’t aware of what you need to do as soon as you return.

2. Nourish Your Mind & Body:

After many rich, indulgent, delicious foods during the holiday break, it’s easy to feel sluggish and unmotivated to stay energized and do your work. Eating leafy greens, other vegetables, and whole grains like oatmeal will help you overcome that “Turkey Day” slump and finish your semester strong. It can also be motivation to give yourself a pat on the back when you’re sitting with your family and friends at Christmas, knowing you most definitely earned and deserve that extra helping of Cayman-style beef, mac and cheese, and heavy cake.

3. Prioritize Your Assignments:

When facing a daunting workload, it’s essential to prioritize your tasks effectively. If you are overwhelmed by a mountain of assignments, such as three assignments, an essay, a group project, and a book report, due within two weeks of your final exam, take a moment to assess their relative importance. Consult your syllabus to determine each assignment’s weight in your final grade. For instance, while a group project may seem time-consuming, it might only contribute 20% to your overall grade, while a book report could make up 30% and significantly impact your final grade. By prioritizing assignments based on their weight, you can allocate your time efficiently and ensure that your efforts are focused on the tasks that will have the greatest impact on your final grade.

By following these tips and staying organized, you can successfully navigate the final stretch of the semester. Remember to take breaks, practice self-care, and seek help when needed. With careful planning and effective time management, you can achieve your academic goals and enjoy a well-deserved break!