The end of BYU-Idaho's fall semester always seems to arrive just as the holidays begin. Thanksgiving leftovers aren't even gone before final projects, group presentations, and exam prep take over your calendar. With fall semester testing days on December 16-17, it may not seem like there is much room to let go and enjoy the season.
Balancing finals prep with the excitement (and chaos) of the holiday season can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of planning and some structure, you can finish the semester strong and still enjoy the holiday spirit.
1. Start Your Finals Prep Before Thanksgiving
It's tempting to tell yourself you'll handle everything after the break, but that approach almost always leads to a stressful December. Instead, begin prepping early. Spend an hour or two each day reviewing notes, organizing project outlines, and finishing small assignments.
Before you head out for Thanksgiving, make a short "pre-break checklist" for each class. This might include catching up on readings, outlining your final essay, or confirming deadlines with your professors. You'll thank yourself later when you return to Rexburg and can dive straight into the final review instead of playing catch-up.
2. Use Thanksgiving Break Wisely
You deserve rest over the holiday, but setting aside a little bit of time for schoolwork will make your finals week far less stressful. Find a quiet corner, pour yourself some cocoa, and review your study guides before you begin cooking your Thanksgiving feast.
A light study session over the break keeps your brain fresh and makes it easier to refocus when you return to classes. The key is balance—take time to recharge, but keep one foot in student mode.
3. Plan Around Holiday Distractions
Once December hits, distractions multiply fast. Christmas lights go up around Rexburg, roommate gift exchanges start, and holiday events fill your evenings. The best way to stay productive is to plan around these distractions instead of trying to ignore them.
Use time blocking to protect your study hours. Pick your most focused times of day—whether that's early morning or late at night—and dedicate those blocks to schoolwork. Then enjoy your evenings guilt-free, knowing you've already made solid progress.
4. Prioritize Big Projects Early
Final projects and group assignments often take longer than expected. Start early and set your own internal deadlines so you can complete your work without a last-minute rush.
If your assignment involves teamwork, schedule group meetings well in advance. Everyone's schedules get tricky around the holidays, and early planning helps you avoid frustration later.
And if you live somewhere with good study spaces and reliable Wi-Fi, like Cedars Housing, make the most of it. Hosting a group study night or project work session can make a big difference in staying motivated and on track.
5. Take Care of Yourself During Finals Prep
It's easy to forget about rest, nutrition, and movement when you're buried in assignments. But burnout won't help you perform your best. Prioritize sleep, eat balanced meals, and take short breaks throughout the day.
Even taking quick walks outside, journaling, or spending time with friends can help reset your focus and help you approach your studies with a clearer mind. Managing your mental health is just as important as managing your workload.
6. Find Your Focus at Cedars Housing
When campus gets hectic and distractions pile up, your environment matters. Cedars Housing offers peaceful study spaces, reliable internet, and a student community that understands what finals season feels like. Whether you're reviewing notes in the lounge or working on a group project in your apartment, Cedars is a place where you can focus, recharge, and finish strong.
