Finals come at the worst time. When we all want to be strolling around breathing in the Christmas spirit, we're often cooped up in the library cramming in more studying than we thought could be humanly possible. Since the holidays and exams are forced to share the same timeline, though, could they perhaps peacefully coexist? Here are some of my thoughts on how they might work together...

1. Study while listening to Christmas music

This is obvious, but it can sometimes help!

2. Cry over your GPA and remember Jesus wept too

John 11:35 says it, and I don't just know that because I have a Rise of Christianity final approaching...

3. Assume the red pen that your T.A. used to grade your paper was done with holiday cheer in mind

Maybe he's not a horrible person and just really likes Christmas?

4. Spill gingerbread latte on your laptop so you have an excuse to give up

Only do this in extreme cases. Start by pouring coffee on one of your less stellar quiz grades and then see how you feel. Or just drink a gingerbread latte.

5. Pretend the bags under your eyes are only big because they need to hold all the toys Santa will deliver to the good boys and girls...

...And your red nose has nothing to do with a nasty cold and everything to do with you lighting the path for Santa's sleigh.

6. Put coal outside the room of your housemate who decides to skip dish duty

And then watch her not even clean the coal.

7. Roll up to your first exam dressed as the Grinch

8. Bubble in “HO HO HO” on your scantron

I’m aware that those aren’t ABCD answers. I’m going to need you to think more outside the box.

9. Bring your elderly bearded professor a Santa hat

Throw in some cookies if you're feeling generous!

10. Light a candle in the library and see how long it takes you to get kicked out

Bonus points if you set off the fire alarm and/or sing "Silent Night" a cappella.

11. Pretend a group of touring high schoolers are elves

Don't pinch their ears, but feel free to ask them for directions to the Toy Factory.

12. When you finish an exam, put your study guide in the paper shredder and then toss the shredded paper in the air to make a winter wonderland

But have a vacuum on hand or else you'll be cleaning paper scraps until the new year!

13. Do something nice for someone else

This time I’m serious. We should all take some time during finals to get over ourselves and spread Christmas cheer!