Junior McKay Lucas walks you through some common problems.                                                         

By McKay Lucas ‘21

As the trimester comes to an end, we look forward to a much needed trimester break before the final trimester ramps back up. Although you may feel like you have everything figured out by now, we know there are still unexpected struggles that can come up! Read on for advice on some of the traditional end of trimester struggles.

What should if I’m not sure what courses to take next year?

With the wide variety of classes available, it is often difficult to balance your interests, what will adequately show that you are taking a challenge, and figuring out what the predicted homework load will look like. You have many resources at your disposal in order to make an informed decision. Firstly, be sure to carefully read the course catalog. Just because a course title peaks your interest doesn’t necessarily mean it’s right for you. Secondly, remember how many teachers, advisors, and administrators who are available to help. College Counselor Leya Jones says, “The key is finding the best balance for YOU: balancing an appropriate and reasonable level of challenge with ability to succeed, and balancing total academic work load with non-academic commitments (activities, hobbies, friends/family, sleep!). When deciding on a particular Advanced course or other course, think about why you’re interested: does the subject matter excite you? Will it be worth the extra time you will need to invest?” Don’t compare your course load to friends, nobody’s lives are equally comparable between school, extracurriculars, and social activities.

What if I have a test after lunch but can’t eat in the library or CMS to study?

If you have free periods before the test, use those to get in some last minute studying and this may prevent you from having to use your lunch. If you feel that you need the extra time, but still want to go to the lunchroom, you always have the option to quickly eat with friends for ten minutes and then head to a quiet spot. If you can focus in crowded areas, another option is to print out a study guide or flash cards, and study while you eat. Friends in the lunch room can even help quiz you! Don’t skip on lunch, this won’t fuel your brain to last through the test.

I’m exhausted but I can’t fall asleep when I finally go to bed at night…

This is a common problem, not just with CA students but with people of all ages. First, it is important to figure out what it is that’s keeping you up. If it’s the nagging thought that you have remaining school work, it often is best to check your to-do list one more time, even if it means opening your tablet. This gets rid of any worries that you forgot to finish an assignment. Secondly, writing, reading, or listening to music (anything that doesn’t involve a screen) are great ways to distract your brain into going to sleep. Here are some professionally recommended ways to fall asleep from Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ways-to-fall-asleep#section1

Quick Fixes:

• My backpack is too heavy!
  • Only bring the folders and binders you need for double block days, just remember to reload everything back to your backpack on Thursday nights.
• I’m sick but I don’t want to miss class.
  • Stay home! Teachers will understand and work with you as long as you communicate effectively with them.
• I don’t have time for prom dress shopping.
  • Order a few online that you think you may like, then try them on to find the style and size that works best for you.