The period between midterms and finals is always challenging, but this semester’s compressed schedule has made it uniquely overwhelming. With Thanksgiving falling late and leaving us with just one week of classes before finals begin, it feels like we’re stuck in a time loop. 

In the midst of this academic whirlwind, it’s easy to feel like you’re running out of time — or worse, that you’re already behind. You might be juggling multiple projects, trying to catch up on missed lectures or bracing for the deluge of final exams that await after the break. With so much going on, it can be hard to even know where to start.

While this may feel overwhelming, there are ways to get through this busy time and maintain some sanity. First, be realistic about what you can accomplish — and be kind to yourself. As the semester winds down and deadlines pile up, it’s easy to set unrealistic expectations. But if there’s one thing that becomes clear in these high-pressure times, it’s that no one can do everything at once. Taking a step back to prioritize what absolutely needs to be done can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help — whether that means talking to a professor about an extension or reaching out to friends and forming study groups. If you advocate for yourself and communicate early, most professors are more than willing to work with you. 

Organization is key. The trick is to break things down into manageable chunks — don’t try to tackle everything at once. Plan study blocks, but also make time for yourself. It’s easy to slip into the habit of working nonstop, especially with the adrenaline of pressure, but that approach can lead to burnout. Whether it’s taking a walk, having a coffee break or simply stepping away from the library for a bit, small moments of rest will help reset your mind for the tasks ahead. 

As hectic as this period may feel, it’s important to remember that we’re all in the same boat. Everyone is experiencing this strange, rushed schedule, so it’s not just you feeling the weight of it all. But remember that taking it one day at a time, asking for help and being kind to yourself can make all the difference in surviving this intense period. So, take a deep breath, and know that while this time is stressful, you will make it through.