As I reflect on my finals to-do list that's longer than Santa's naughty/nice list, a part of me wants to just scream and run away. I'm ready for decorating the Christmas tree, wrapping presents, and seeing my family—not taking three tests and finishing up five projects (not including the amount of packing I have to do!). However, in order to get into the festivities of Christmas, despite the stress, there are a few things I try to do each Christmas season at college to bring some holiday joy into my life.

1. Listen to Christmas music while you study

Sure, Biology isn't quite what you planned to be doing five days before Christmas Eve. However, you can make those late-night study sessions more fun and spirited with listening to some of your favorite Holiday tunes. If you're not sure where to find amazing Christmas music, feel free to use my Spotify Christmas Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/ddrosdick97/playlist...

2. Take a study break and go caroling with friends

College is a time for spontaneous events. What's more spontaneous than going around the dorms with some friends and singing Christmas carols? Not only will you get more in the Christmas spirit, you'll also bring some Christmas cheer to those around you stressing finals away.

3. Make stockings for your roommate or housemates

Making stockings for your roommate/ housemates is a good way to let them know how much you appreciate them! The best part is that you don't have to spend a ton of money filling up a stocking. You can put notes saying "You can do it!", little pieces of candy, or small trinkets. It'll be a fun way to have some sense of excitement despite the blues of finals.

4. Get creative decorating your dorm

Paper snowflakes are a cheap and easy way to transform your dorm room into a winter wonderland. Other ideas for making your dorm room ready for the Holidays are buying Christmas lights, putting a 'fire' on your television, or lighting a Holiday-scented candle (use a flame-less candle or something else if your college doesn't let you have candles in the dorms).

5. Make Christmas cookies

Christmas cookies has three purposes during the Holiday/Finals season: for getting in the holiday spirit, celebrating after a completed final, and for binge-eating as you look at all the things you still need to do. Trust me, these cookies will be very important when you have your first finals breakdown.

6. Treat yo' self with hot cocoa

Finals season is never easy. It's important to reward yourself for the little things (like getting out of bed and going to class). To treat yourself for a job well done, make yourself a steaming cup of decadent hot chocolate. If you're feeling really luxurious, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkles on top.

7. Wear your most festive outfits

There is an extremely small window to wear ugly Christmas sweaters. If you own one, make sure to break it out as much as possible during this short season. Not only will you feel more Christmas-y, you will also channel the holiday spirit to slay your exams this year.

8. Throw a holiday party for your friends

Holiday Parties are a great time to see old and new friends one last time before you leave for Christmas break. It's a nice distraction from the monotony of studying; and it also saves you the hassle of saying good-bye to each individual person before holiday break.

Though it may seem daunting, you will get through this. Two more weeks before you can rest easy at home and relax. Just think of all the great things awaiting you at home, and hang in there. Remember, Buddy the Elf is proud of you no matter what.