Your December Guide
People tend to either love or hate the holidays. Either way, it's definitely stress-heavy for everyone, especially when uni is still in session. For you as a student it's therefore important to minimize stress wherever you can this month. Here's our tips on how to do just that:
Get uni things in order
1. Don't chill just yet
December is a weird month at uni. Even though the holiday break feels like it should be the end of the semester, in most places it isn't. Add to it all the holiday stress, which can include traveling and family issues to an already dark and cold month and you have the perfect recipe for slacking on assignmnets and course work. So: stay on top of the game. Make a study plan and study with your uni peers. This has the added bonus that you get to spend some time with friends before everyone leaves for the holidays. You should also make sure that your lecture and revision notes are detailed and in order - you will need this when exams come up in the new year. For an extra motivation, remember that you get something for all the notes you upload to Studydrive! Check out our reward store for some inspiration!
2. Check your deadlines
Don't miss out on your university deadlines - this is the time to double check them and add them to your calendar. Whether it's fees, year abroad applications, new courses, stipends or aaaanything else. Write them down now!
3. Return books
Many universities make exceptions over the holidays, but better safe than sorry: check when your book loans expire! In most cases you can renew them online, but you run into problems when someone has pre-ordered the book that is currently lent out to you. Don't waste your money on fees, take a final trip to the library before you leave your university city or the library closes.
Prepare for the holidays
1. Book your tickets
If you don't live close to your family, you should arrange your travels asap if you haven't already. Keep an eye out for discount offers, consider carpooling or team up with other students who live in your home town.
2. Communicate with your family
If possible, communicate open and honestly with your family regarding holiday expectations. We realize this is not so easy for everyone since the holiday time can bring up a lot of family conflict. That's why it's important to try to manage expectations and set clear boundaries. At the end of the day this time should also serve as time for you to relax before exam season. So do whatever you have to do in order to ensure that.
3. Budget smartly
Holiday season can mean lots of financial stress and strain, especially in the current economy. Switch the Christmas markets for a nice cookie-baking-session at home, with cheap-ish mulled wine from the store. When it comes to presents, go for self-made things or check out discounts. Check out our guide for saving money during the holidays.
4. Make time for fun
Through all the holiday and uni stress, it's easy to forget the most important thing: have fun! When you're at home, schedule regular calls with your friends from uni. Set time for family walks or game nights. Plan things with your old high school friends. Planning for fun sounds counter-intutive, but it's the best way to make sure that you will indeed end up having fun!
