‘Tis that awkward part of the season when it’s not quite time to call it quits for the semester. It’s ridiculously cold, everything smells like cinnamon and the doom of finals is upon us. Thanks to that last minor detail, giving up is not an option. Luckily, there are some perks that come with the end of fall semester, and the list below will show you all of the ways to take advantage of them.
**1) Write it down**
Writing down what you’re thankful for may sound cliché and childish. Yes, you did it every year in grade school, and yes, you intentionally left out your little brother every single time. But let’s face it, with all the stress that comes with the end of the semester, a little reminder won’t hurt. Cause we know you miss that booger now, anyways.
**2) Love the leaves**
This is the last time that you will get to admire the gorgeous fall leaves. Maybe it’s nature’s way of apologizing for the near-hypothermic experiences we’ll go through on the way to class in January. Apology accepted.
**3) Get excited and scream too loud over a football game**
It’s bowl game season. Though our beloved Tigers will not be participating, that doesn’t mean you can’t take part in the fun. Pick a team and cheer them on from your couch. Make it a party by watching with your friends and eating an astronomical amount of junk food.
**4. Be obnoxious with your holiday spirit**
Why? Because you can get away with it. Duh. Wear that tacky Christmas sweater with the 3D reindeer and shiny lights. Blast those carols and sing them at the top of your lungs in the car and in the shower. If anyone tells you to stop, you have every right to accuse them of lacking holiday spirit. Nobody likes a Grinch.
**5) Make the most of your meal plan**
Many of you are noticing that you have too many meals left on your meal plan and not enough hunger. Use those meals to stock up on snacks that don’t expire from Emporium for your meal plan. Feeling charitable? Use your swipes to get food for donations.
**6) Sip Starbucks**
Every winter, Starbucks comes out with holiday beverages that are sure to warm you up and put you in a good mood. Grab a pumpkin spice, gingerbread or caramel brulée latte to start your day. Cause really, those red cups are just too cute.
**7) Show your appreciation**
Many soldiers don’t get to go home this winter to see their families. This is an awesome opportunity to put a smile on a stranger’s face. Make a care package or write a letter to a solider wishing them a happy holiday and telling them how much you appreciate their work.
**8) Deck the halls, literally**
String holiday lights and other decorations in your living space. This is a surefire way to keep your spirits up and sights focused on the ultimate goal. Finishing finals and going home for the holidays.
**9) Find a perfectly quiet secret study spot**
With finals coming up, finding the perfect place to study is crucial. Whether it be one of those creepy little cage rooms in Ellis or a cozy booth in Vida, find your spot and use it.
**10) Shop shop shop**
The beauty of attending a campus that is within walking distance to the heart of downtown Columbia is access to the adorable little shops located there. You will be able to find so many “can only be found here” gifts for the holidays to bring home.
