The end of November is a strange time- in a few weeks we’re returning back to some home cooked meals from our families, the present-giving season is upon us, and we’ll soon be done with lectures for first term. All this sounds pretty good, so why is this time often one of the most difficult at uni?
It can definitely be difficult it stay positive at such a busy and stressful time of year
Well, for all those reasons, I guess. The fact we’re finishing first term soon is scary! We are starting to think about those January exams, coursework is ALWAYS piling up at this time and to add to that, our student loan is beginning to run low… oh dear. All those presents you need to buy, xmas dinners you need to attend and All Whiter crisis tickets you need to bid for are all on your ‘to buy’ list; this is when the November slump may be starting to get to you.
I will admit, it can definitely be difficult it stay positive at such a busy and stressful time of year, so here are some ways to try to relax and enjoy the final month of this term.
If the launch of Starbuck’s winter drinks is not enough to perk you up, then I don’t know what is
Stay healthy: I may sound like your mum, but things like having a few early nights and wrapping up warmly is so important! Also, remember to fuel yourself, especially as it’s getting really cold! Warm soups, cosy drinks (if the launch of Starbucks’ winter drinks is not enough to perk you up, then I don’t know what is) and try taking some supplements: just to give you a health boost you may need!
Teamwork makes the dream work: In a lot of subjects there is a lot of group coursework, and while you may think of that as your worst nightmare, it can actually be quite fun. Group coursework has helped me meet more people and make new friends and it can be less stressful when you have other people to rely on as well.
Even with individual coursework, have study sessions with course friends and help each other, and as long as you manage your time well and keep to deadlines, it is often more manageable than it first looks.
As hard as it may be, try to refrain from Black Friday
Be sensible with your money: Yes, your student loan may be lacking, but there are lots of fun, cheap things to do during this time of year. Organise a creative Secret Santa with your friends to see who can get the best present under £10, and as hard as it may be, try to refrain from Black Friday. I know there are great deals on offer, but you don’t want to rinse your last remaining finances on another makeup palette that you just don’t need.
Take time to have fun: This doesn’t have to be anything crazy: have a cosy night with friends and a Netflix movie, go to a carol services or xmas fairs, and enjoy the end of first term society socials.
Start looking forward to Christmas!! No matter what the haters say: November is not too early! The Christmas market has arrived in Nottingham, festive food is in shops and sparkling lights are all around. It could just be that all you need to get you through these long, dark evenings is some mulled wine, mince pies and the silky vocals of Micheal Bublé.
Katy Skillen
Featured image courtesy of Michael Summers via Flickr. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
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