The end of the academic year is one of the busiest times for college students, with exams, presentations, and end of year projects all due simultaneously. In addition there is the end of year social buzz, with students trying to cram in the last get-togethers and parties before everyone leaves for summer break. Emotions are also running high as people are frantically job hunting or facing the disappointment from the many rejections that job seekers inevitably face.
Student workers in housing are under additional strain, as the end of the academic year is one of the busiest periods in the department. Not only is there the frantic need to complete semester or quarterly requirements, such as intentional chats with residents and programming, but there is also the looming anxiety of closing and moving out that student workers have to weather before they can escape for the summer.
Stress Management
Remember to utilize the tools and resources that are at your disposal during this time. Counseling centers and mental health advocates can provide resources and a safe space for managing stress and fatigue. Whether you need advice or a place to vent your concerns, they are prepared to assist you. Don’t forget to take the time to decompress, many departments and student organizations take the time to plan events around finals week, so don’t be afraid to seek those programs out either.
Communicate
Don’t be afraid to talk with your supervisor if you are having concerns about your ability to balance your workload. The earlier you tell them, the more they can help you, so don’t wait until the last minute if you can avoid it. Additionally, try to know what you need, while your supervisor is willing to help you, they can’t read your mind, and they don’t know your entire schedule. You are the only one that knows what will serve you best, whether it’s an extension on a task, or shifting your schedule to better accommodate exams and study time.
Connecting with Residents
Your residents are also under stress during this time of year, and meeting up with their RA is not going to be a high priority. Do your best to meet people half way, but don’t neglect your own responsibilities while doing so. Also think ahead to how to stay connected after the year ends:
