It’s hard to believe that school has already started, yet alone the first semester is nearing a close. It feels like just yesterday that I was picking out my classes and stressing out about the first day of school. So far, it has been a bit rough as a sophomore and perhaps for the other classes as well, if we’re being completely honest with ourselves.

Through the years, I’ve learned that it’s incredibly easy to lose sight of your goals when you’re under lots of pressure and stressing out about a million things. Such as, your grades and other commitments life has given you. Although lots may be going on, it’s important to keep your head on straight when something negative happens as you’re flying through the last weeks of the semester.

Prepare in advance: There is something I struggle with semester after semester, but it will really help you if you make sure you are still staying on top of everything and preparing for exams, assignments, etc. I write out all my due dates in my planner and at the beginning of the week i take a look at what’s due soon, and not just in the current week but two or three weeks in advance. It helps me to see what sorts of assignments and exam are coming up so i can begin to prepare.

Eating breakfast: Not only is it the most important meal of the day from a nutritional standpoint, there are many important academic, health and behavioral implications as well. The benefits of eating breakfast can include; reaching higher levels of achievement in reading and math, better concentration, retaining more knowledge and participation in class.

Get help: We’re a few weeks from finals, and it’s not too late to get help. Getting help from an expert on the topic, such as your teacher, can and will increase your knowledge and help you flow through class more easily.

Take time to do something fun: School can be stressful and it’s important to relax your mind when things like exams rush our way.