How to Beat the Mid-Semester Blues

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Friday, March 01, 2013

It’s finally March, which means spring is almost here and many students are quickly being lulled into a complacency that only the middle of the semester can bring. They can find themselves unmotivated, even as their workload begins to pile up.

Kimberly Witzig, the academic transition coach in the Center for Teaching and Learning at York College, offered a few tips to help beat the mid-semester blues and get motivated.

1. Use your time wisely. “Use technology to get organized. Whether it’s your phone, iPod, iPad or computer, write down study hours and the subjects you need to study.”

2. Set personal goals. “It’s very easy to get distracted on a college campus, so challenge yourself. Upon completion, reward yourself.”

3. Throw a Homework Party. “Try organizing a Homework Party to help relax and prepare for upcoming exams. Exchanging knowledge, laughter and encouragement among friends provides motivation and enthusiasm.”

4. Relax! “Try a relaxation technique that works for you (e.g. exercise, reflection, reading). These techniques/activities can improve concentration, mindfulness and cognitive performance.”

5. Step out of your comfort zone. “Take a day off from academics; meet new people, join an organization, go to a sporting event or theatrical performance. The result of your experiences should motivate you to become further stimulated academically.”