It’s official: I am burnt out. I want to be done with college. I don’t want to write any more essays. I just want to work and take care of my family. It took a decade, but it finally happened.

Does this sound familiar? If so, I have a few pieces of advice that I am using to get through my final year of college.

1. “Map” out the rest of your route or go back and look at the map you might have already planned. If you haven’t written (or drawn) out this plan, then start with today. List your goals and the dates they should/will get accomplished. If you do have an already-planned out map, first look at where you were. Now look at where you are. Be impressed. Be proud. Now, write out the rest of your plan for the next months or year depending on your graduation date. Once finished, hang this up somewhere you will see it daily.
2. Talk it out with your peers – get coffee and chat about these feelings. I bet you aren’t alone. Near the end of college, many people experience this burnout often known as “senioritis.” You don’t have to be a senior, though. Talking to your peers about your feelings regarding burnout will help you – nobody should internalize all of that anxiety.
3. Don’t overload yourself (if you don’t have to). Many of us get ambitious right before a new semester: “I’m going to take 3 extra units so my final semester is a breeze.” Yeah ok, but if you don’t survive THIS semester, you won’t make it to the final one! Think logically when planning out your days during the semester, making sure to include commute times, family time, and study time for a REASONABLE number of college courses. When I say reasonable, I mean 12 units for undergrad and 6 units for grad, depending on your schedule and if you attend a semester or quarter university/college.
4. Give yourself a break. Seriously. I mean this in two ways: one, don’t feel guilty for being burnt out – look at how much you’ve accomplished and how many responsibilities you have. It’s no wonder you’re burnt out – who wouldn’t be? Two, actually give yourself a break – every week. It doesn’t have to be an entire day if you cannot afford it, but please take some time to pamper yourself. This could be as simple as a nap or painting your nails if you enjoy that. Or just watching a fun movie with your kiddos. Not taking this time will just build the stress you are already carrying around from the burnout.
5. Visit/talk with your mentor and/or advisor. Talk to them about your feelings, seek their advice, and then take it. Your mentor has your best interest at heart and likely knows a lot about your journey.
6. Remember: it’s almost over! If you are like me, you will eventually miss school. I know I will, though I can’t fully imagine it right in this moment. The point is, your journey is nearly finished and you won’t have this time again.

So, do your best, be your best self, take that break, visualize the finish line, spend time with your peers, and do it all without carrying too heavy of an unnecessary load on your back! 

Want to know more about finding a mentor, planning your schedule, or balancing family life? Check out my book, College Success for Moms, available on Kindle and paperback!