The Second Semester Rush: How Students Can Stay on Track Amidst the Chaos

 

As the year draws to a close, so does the second semester of the 2023/2024 academic session. Like the swift arrival of the harmattan breeze, the academic calendar scurries, bringing with it a flurry of activities such as department week, faculty week, Jaw War, and UISU week. There is no doubt that students are striving to keep up with the many activities that come with the end of the year. At week seven of the semester, tests are looming, and students must balance academic responsibilities with extracurricular engagements. While we face these challenges, it is crucial for students to find balance amidst the chilling cold of the harmattan. The increasing demands of the academic calendar and the approach of exams make it even more essential to stay focused and organised.

The semester began with minimal break after the conclusion of first-semester exams, compelling students to resume with barely enough time to catch their breath. Now in week seven, faculties and departments have commenced tests and presentations, causing students to study more intensively than usual. While this has become a familiar drill for students, the flurry of extracurricular activities during this period makes it harder to stay grounded. The recently concluded UISU week, which featured events like inter-hall competitions, drew significant participation from students. Such activities, though exciting, disrupt academic focus. One might ask, “Is UISU week and any other week really necessary at such a critical time in the semester?” For student leaders, the responsibilities are even greater as they juggle the coordination of departmental and faculty week activities alongside their academic commitments.

It is no secret that these activities take a toll on students’ mental health. The strain of balancing academic work and extracurricular engagements often leads to fatigue, sleep deprivation, stress, and overall burnout. On regular days, students already struggle to meet deadlines for assignments and projects. With the addition of extracurricular obligations, the pressure to keep up becomes overwhelming. Many students face a dilemma: should they prioritise academic work or participate in social activities? This conflict of interest can negatively affect academic performance, especially when students’ attention is divided.

While these challenges cannot be entirely eliminated, students must learn to set boundaries, prioritise effectively, and find balance. Academic excellence should remain the primary focus unless one’s goal is to “flex” on campus. Effective time management is critical, but it’s not enough to simply understand its importance, students must practice it consistently. Prioritising assignments, presentations, tests, and term papers is crucial, as they make up a significant portion of the overall assessment for the session. Students should also strive for sufficient sleep despite the chilly 8 a.m. classes, eat well, and take necessary breaks to recharge amid the busyness of the semester.

While students bear a significant share of the responsibility for maintaining balance, the role of the school management cannot be overlooked. The management should consider easing the burden on students by reducing the number of overlapping activities and showing empathy in how lecturers assign coursework and deadlines. Empathy from lecturers can go a long way in supporting students’ mental well-being. Additionally, student support systems, such as study groups and peer support networks, can provide much-needed relief. The school management should also ensure that health facilities are accessible to students, as timely access to health services can help prevent burnout and maintain well-being.

As we navigate the whirlwind of academic and social responsibilities, it is imperative to maintain balance. Students must prioritise academics, manage their time effectively, and ensure their well-being. On the other hand, school management and lecturers have a role to play in creating an environment that promotes student welfare. Together, these efforts will ensure a smoother academic experience fo

r all.