With Thanksgiving break one week away, it’ll be tempting to checkout this week in classes, but this break is a sign of how close we are to the end of the semester, which means we must power through these final few weeks. Of course, we all deserve a nice break and time to relax, but that doesn’t mean we can forget everything that we have been working towards this whole semester. Whether you are celebrating the holiday with friends or family or staying in Pullman to enjoy your time off, Thanksgiving break is not only a time off from classes, but it is also a time to start preparing for end-of-the-semester projects, presentations, and finals.
Here are some tips to not let Thanksgiving break derail your semester…. Let me explain:
It’s very easy to see this holiday week as a free week off from classes with no repercussions. But, in reality, all your classes, assignments, and final exams will still be waiting for you when you come out the other side of the break. Just because it is labeled a week off from classes, doesn’t mean you can take the whole week off scot-free.
Set some realistic goals and expectations for the break
You need to make a plan for when we are going to study and keep up with assignments. Look at what you have due coming up the week after break and set some realistic goals of what you want to work on during your week off. This can help keep you on track for when we come back, ready to finish out the semester strong. Even if it’s just studying for your finals for an hour every day or working on that final project or presentation for one of your courses. This will help you use that week effectively without derailing your academics.
Be outspoken
If you are spending break with your loved ones, I know it’s easy to get distracted with family and friends during break but stick to your goals. Let them know that you have a homework/study schedule set up and that they need to respect that. Give them a breakdown of days and times that you will be studying so they don’t plan family events over that time, or work with them to solidify your study times outside of family events so they don’t overlap. By sticking to your schedule, you also have enough time to spend with them, enjoying the holiday.
Pause and refresh your mind and enjoy your break
I know all I’ve talked about so far is preparing and making a plan to keep on your schoolwork, but it is a break after all! It’s designed to give you time to relax and enjoy some much-needed down time! And because you’ve prepared so well with your planning, you have plenty of time to relax, put your feet up, and have some hot coco!
