With the end of the year rapidly approaching, students are trying to balance the stress of getting their grades up with their extracurricular activities.

Staying on top of important and demanding classes can be challenging, especially with all of the different events that take place at the end of the year.

“I think it’s because most people want to get everything done…Everyone wants to get everything done at the end of the year so that they can relax and go on vacation over the summer,” said Gabriel Medebem.

The end of the year is stressful because of exams and the pressure of raising grades as the school year is coming to a close. 

“There’s more business because of finals and exams and everyone burnt out towards the end of the year and just wants it to be summer. I think it is important to put in work and study, but God has a plan for your life at the end of the day. All you can do is your best and trust in God’s plan,” said Peyton Lee.

There are different ways students and faculty stay organized. Staying focused on the goal, prioritizing properly, and taking care of one’s health are all beneficial.

“I think good ways to stay organized at the end of the year are prioritizing what is the most important, making sure you’re getting enough sleep, and staying focused on the main goal. I try to delegate what tasks I need more help with, so if I have a math test and chemistry homework the next day, I’ll study for the test more because it has a higher effect on my grade,” said Emily Shelton.

Working ahead is important because it helps create room for other studies and needed breaks. Devoting space and organization is crucial as well, and waiting until the last minute isn’t advised.

“Working ahead is key when preparing for AP exams. Don’t wait until the last minute; start reviewing nightly and prepare in advance. Also, if there’s something to do, put your tech and social media away. The other thing is to devote space. Have an organization system that works for you; keep everything in one space so that you can easily access it,” said Mrs. Nardella.

Keeping a list or setting reminders on apps or planners helps you stay on top of important things without the risk of forgetting.

“Sometimes, I keep a checklist in the reminders app on my phone. As soon as possible, I will note an activity I need to do on my phone to remember later… I also leave some time for myself in my free time to do things I enjoy. I think it’s important to take breaks when I feel too worried about an assignment so that I can return to it with a clear head.” said Medebem

The faculty and students have also provided insight into how they stay focused and balanced. Some people include sleep and breathing exercises in their routines. 

“Here are some great tips. First of all, try to get enough sleep. Sleep and exercise are key. Even thirty minutes a day of light exercise drastically improves your mood and lowers stress. Deep breathing: Do you know the box method for deep breathing exercises where you count to five when you inhale and to five when you exhale? Do it five times. Set aside some time just to be present and keep away distractions, being present and calm and reflecting.” said Nardella

Music helps to relax after a long day of studies and sports.

“What helps me the most is listening to my favorite music after a stressful day after the school day or during school work,” said Olia Golonei

Breaking things down into steps helps people stay calm and precise in their work and makes things less complicated.

“When I feel overwhelmed with many projects in a short period, it helps me to take one day at a time. Sometimes, we can get so overwhelmed with the big picture of all the things we have to complete that it adds to our stress, but when we can break it down to what’s the next best thing for us to do, yeah, it helps to lower the stress in our life,” said Mr. Hilliard.

While taking brain breaks, it can be fun to turn off technology and engage in hobbies. Working out, making art, or listening to music are great ways to clear the mind.

“Sometimes it’s best to calm down and take my mind off it by doing something I enjoy, like playing the guitar or going to the gym. By doing a hobby like that, I get unstressed and can focus easily,” said Medebem

Staying organized has benefits. Most of all, it’s important to remain optimistic and have a clean mindset. 

“A lot of times, we find that physically, our bodies are worn out and tired at the end of the year, and sometimes the best thing that you can do is literally just take a nap. We talked about this in Chapel, of how even in the midst of Chaos, we can rest physically and spiritually, knowing that we can trust a God who has everything under his control,” said Hilliard.

Great end-of-the-year habits lead to the desired result. While it’s necessary to work for those dreamy grades, it’s good to remember that grades don’t entirely define someone. 

“I think my end-of-the-year habits help me stay focused and prioritize what I need to do first, but at the end of the day, what helps me the most is knowing that my grades don’t define who I am as a person and just put Jesus first. Even though academics get stressful, know that He still loves you despite your grade,” said Shelton.