We're Nearly Halfway There. Are You Excited or Dreading It?

When you saw my article title, how did it make you feel? Do you think the fear of finals is creeping up on you? Or are you already looking ahead to your big summer vacation? No matter which side you're on, this piece is here to help. This week, we’ll navigate the emotions that come with each semester.

Many of you Gossip Girl lovers have expressed a desire for more personal pieces. You crave the same attention to everyday struggles as those who find interest in other campus topics. Why should you trust me? That’s a great question. Because I’ve been here for five years. Yes, five—don’t judge. I had to switch majors. It happens. During that time, I sat right where you are, uncertain about how to feel. And I know that’s the case for many of you because you clicked on this article. Feelings are hard to navigate, and the stress of school makes that challenge even greater.

Remember to prioritize your mental health and physical well-being. Practicing good hygiene and staying aware of inclement weather conditions can help maintain your physical health. Try coloring, breathing exercises or even therapy. If you need support while at school, reach out to caps@newhaven.edu for psychological services and counseling. This is a great way to express your feelings, gain support or seek guidance. Additionally, therapy dogs visit campus throughout the semester to support students. Our university’s furry friends—Ace, Jarvis, Gunny and Titan—are here to help. Feelings can be overwhelming, but taking the time to process, understand and educate yourself about them makes all the difference. Talking about emotions makes them easier to manage, and people are always here to help.

If you're feeling especially excited about the upcoming summer, here are some important things to remember. Stay on top of your assignments—your grades are only as strong as the effort you put in. If you're struggling in a class, contact cdc@newhaven.edu for tutoring and academic support. They offer specialized programs to help you meet professors' expectations and succeed. If you’re falling behind but hesitant to speak up, prioritize your well-being. Burnout is real; pushing yourself too hard can make or break your semester. If challenges arise beyond your control, don’t hesitate to seek help from professors or peers—they’re here to support you.

As a university community, we grow and learn together, supporting each other through every challenge and success. Whether you're facing academic hurdles, mental health struggles or simply adjusting to new experiences, remember that you are not alone. We foster a culture of kindness and understanding, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Take care of yourself, uplift those around you, and embrace every opportunity this journey offers—both inside and outside the classroom.

The semester isn’t over yet, so don’t worry—my sappy tactics will be a surprise tool we’ll need later! Enjoy every moment until you reread this article. Then, it’s for real. Graduation is gradually approaching, but let’s keep it at arm’s length.

As always, I’d love to hear from anyone who reads my work! Even if you have nothing specific to say or just want to have a conversation, I’d love to hear from you. Keep sending in suggestions for topics you’d like to read about, whether from my perspective or someone else’s. And remember—there’s always someone out there thinking about some version of a 2 a.m. perspective.