Beating the Last Block Blues
How to Avoid Academic Burnout
By Gabi Drobot, Assistant Editor
Students are nearing the end of the academic year as the final block semester quickly approaches.
With only four weeks left in the term, it is easy to start feeling overwhelmed or a sense of academic burnout. Especially after spring break, it tends to be more challenging to return to that constant grind of coursework after having a small taste of summertime freedom.
Living in Florida, Lynn students are fortunate to have that summer feeling nearly year-round, and with less than a month remaining, now it not the time for students to slack off because their grades will take a hit.
Academic burnout is nothing new to students. Simply defined, it is the adverse emotional, physical and mental reaction to prolonged studies that can lead to exhaustion, lack of motivation and reduced academic performance.
“I used to get burnout all the time in high school,” said Ben Brown, a sophomore. “Block scheduling helps decrease the burnout, but by the last block, I am just ready for a break.”
The first step in dealing with academic burnout is recognizing that you are experiencing it. Some common symptoms include a significant loss of confidence in intellectual abilities, constant exhaustion no matter how much sleep you receive, increased irritability and skipping classes.
“At the beginning of the year, I am so motivated to go to my classes and get good grades,” said Brown. “After spring break, it gets tough. I always feel tired and never want to go to class anymore.”
With Lynn’s block schedule, students are fortunate to not have to cram in all the material learned since January. On the other hand, students must progress fast and complete an entire course in four weeks.
Just keep in mind that if you are feeling the symptoms of academic burnout, you are not alone! There are numerous easy fixes that can help with the final push to the end the year.
First, make sure you set reasonable goals for yourself. If you notice you are struggling, it is OK to not push yourself for a perfect grade on every assignment. If you put your best foot forward in your work, the outcome will reflect that.
Also, talk to your professors. If you are feeling burnout, there is a chance your professors are, too. Express that you are struggling with material or assignments, and they will be willing to help guide you.
While many other options to alleviate academic burnout exist, it is vital to figure out what fits your needs. Creating and sticking to a schedule is a great way to continue a regular cycle of normalcy throughout the week. Setting aside time for schoolwork outside of class is crucial, but setting aside time to have fun and rest are equally as important.
“I always do my homework right after class,” said Paige Platt, a junior. “This way, once my homework is done, I have the rest of the day to focus on myself and things I enjoy doing.”
Everyone is different, but academic burnout does not have to impact you as dramatically as it has before. Keep prioritizing yourself and your schoolwork, and somewhere along the way, you will find that common ground needed for success.
