It's that time of year again folks. Drum roll please... finals week! Whether this is your first, last or one of the many experiences of hell week, I'm here to give you a quick pep talk to remind you to keep on keepin' on.

Didn't this year go by so fast? Through all the late night study sessions, random trips to Walmart and infinite cups of coffee, you've managed to come out with only a few bruises and mental breakdowns. Not too shabby!

So don't give up yet kiddo, you're almost there! So close to feeling the warm sun kiss your skin, inhaling the smell of freshly cut grass and to not having to worry about your next test or essay. You've made it almost 6 months without giving up this semester, and that in itself is impressive. One or two more weeks should be a breeze, a piece of cake. And everyone loves cake! (If they don't, they're lying and I wouldn't trust them anyway).

My advice to you is to take one day at a time. Trust me, it's important to think of the future and plan things ahead of time, but focusing on things you can't control will only destroy you, not build you. Make a list of things you need to accomplish by the end of the day, and as the day continues, cross them off and let the satisfying feeling of accomplishment wave over you.

I know that finding the inspiration to do those tasks is equivalent to finding Bigfoot, and that everything else seems ten times more entertaining than sitting in the library studying for exams. But think of it this way: the faster you can get these tedious tasks out of the way, the closer you are to enjoying summer and all it's wonderful opportunities.

If making lists are not your thing, try writing down on a sheet of paper the most aggravating things disturbing you at the moment. Then rip that thing up and throw it in the trash where it belongs. It sounds really silly, but trust me, it's one of the healthiest ways I know to vent out some pent up anger.

So don't give up hope just yet, you're almost there! Put on some relaxing music, perhaps you could try listening to some nature sounds to calm your nerves. But more importantly, don't let these last couple of weeks deter you from continuing the hard work you've been putting in until then. Remember that you are good enough and that you are only capable of giving what you possess.

Lastly, do not forget to take care of yourself. I understand how easily and quickly you can get wrapped up in cramming information, but make sure you get some sleep, drink plenty of water and eat some ice cream every now and then. You deserve to treat yourself, so don't deprive yourself of that reward!

Godspeed fellow students, and I'll see you on the other side filled with sunshine, warmth and sweet, sweet freedom.