Staff Editorial: Time for a break

Congratulations!

We made it through the fall semester. And without any hurricanes charging through campus. And especially without any little critters getting crunched in the cafeteria.

But now comes the hard part.

The last-minute papers.

The last-minute tests.

And (the most dreaded assignments of all) exams.

And the end of the semester is just around the corner, which means that students’ brains are already fried.

The end of the semester is usually one of the more stressful times. There's always too much work that has to be done and not enough time to do it all. Every class is trying to cram in more assignments. And while this might seem to be just more work added to the already mountain-like pile, keep in mind that extra assignment must have been given for a reason. Perhaps it is that assignment that will give you the extra point and change your grade from a B+ to an A-. Or that assignment will decide if you pass the class or fail.

Finding all the time to do this and not getting stressed out is the toughest part of managing all of the last-minute things. It is easy to get stressed because those words aren't coming. All you have is a blank computer screen and you still need to pound out that five-page paper by your 1:30 class. Or you keep reading over the same material, but none of it sinks in. Or you are trying to get the final research done for a paper while still having to study for a test, both of which are due on the same day and (worse yet) back-to-back.

But the best thing to do is to relax and step away for a little bit. Take a little study break and get away from it all. Unlike some other colleges, you have numerous opportunities to get away from the computer screens and the books. For example, head to downtown Norfolk and hit up MacArthur Mall or Waterside mall. Or if it is warm enough, go for a walk along the waterfront in Norfolk; you can look across the Elizabeth River and see Portsmouth and get some fresh air at the same time.

If you don't want to head to Norfolk, head the other way and towards Virginia Beach. The beach has its choice selections, too. Get the car packed with your friends and go to the "Chick-fil-A Holiday Lights at the Beach." For $9 on a Mon.-Thurs. nights and $10 on Fri.-Sun. nights, you get to drive on the Boardwalk and see all sorts of decorations. Another idea is to head out to the Boardwalk during the daytime and go roller blading or running or even biking. One length of the Boardwalk (from First Street to 40th) is about three miles long - it goes by quick, and the parking is free in the off-season! Or perhaps you do want to get out at night, but don't want to pay money. Grab some friends and head down to one of the isolated parts of the beach (85th Street is a good spot). Play frisbee, run around or even look at the stars (which are pretty on a clear night), but just be prepared to be bundle up, because chances are that it is going to be quite chilly near the coast.

There are plenty of other things to do as well. IHOP is a great haven away from all the late-night studying. A trip up to the Wendy’s Late-Nite window can help take away any food cravings. Or if you want something a little healthier, don't forget about Wawa; after all, they make quick food , and it’s mostly healthy.

These are all just little things and ideas to do to break away from the stress. Just remember that while you may take a break to get away, the work will be there when you come back.

But, hopefully the stress will be gone.