As the days get warmer and the snow begins to melt, the thought of summer creeps into everyone’s minds, and staying motivated in school and work becomes a struggle for everyone. Daydreaming about the much-needed break and warm weather can make staying focused on finishing the semester out the semester strong, especially challenging. However, the final stretch of the semester is just important as the rest and maintaining motivation and focus can make a huge differencein academic success.
Motivation levels dropping as summer drops is a normal experience for many individuals. Burnout from a long semester and winter, combined with excitement of the upcoming summer break, can make schoolwork feel less of a priority inmany people’s minds.
“As the weather gets nicer in the spring being inside in class or studying becomes so much harder because I just think about all the fun things I could be doing outside instead,” said So. Ellyn Berry.
Some tips for staying on track and on top of schoolwork while lacking drive include creating a schedule, staying organized, and changing study environments. Planning out days and weeks can help create a balance of work and free time to avoid burn out. By using a schedule or making lists, individuals can make staying organized easier. This can help keep track of assignments, exams, and help prioritize what needs to be done. Lastly, sometimes a simple change of scenery can make all the difference when it comes to productivity. Trying new study spots such as the library, coffee shops, or other campus spots can boost concentration and refresh one’s mindset.
“I have a big spread sheet with all of my upcoming assignments, exams and other tasks to get done which is definitelyhelpful when it comes to staying on track and on top of my schoolwork,” said Fr. Amelia Strong. “Having everything laid out and organized makes it all seem more manageable to get done and less overwhelming.”
Another keyway students can get through this challenging time is by remembering the reason why they are here. Reflecting on one’s goals, personal growth, and memories of the college experience can all help individuals reconnect withtheir purpose and boost motivation.
While pushing through the end of the semester is important, so is mental health and taking time to focus on oneself. Making sure to get adequate sleep, eat well, and take a break from the books when needed are ways that individuals can avoid mental burnout during these final weeks.
“Making sure that I take time for myself is a keyway that I prevent burn out as we get to the end of the school year,” said Berry. “Making sure I keep in touch with friends and plan fun activities to do is a way I like to I fill my own cup and make get to overwhelmed by school.”
Asking for help when students are feeling overwhelmed is also a way to end the semester successfully. Reaching out to friends, professors, and even campus mental health or academic support resources are all ways to get the help one may need.
Although the end of the semester may feel challenging, it also serves as a reminder of what students are capable of. Staying motivated doesn’t mean perfection, it just means consistency and commitment.
This spring semester has flown by for many, and summer is creeping around the corner. By staying focused, motivated, and finishing the semester strong, students can enjoy their break to the fullest knowing they gave it their all.
Sonya Skar is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].