On Monday, November 18th, The Learning Hub hosted a workshop titled “Turkey Talk: Making the Most of Thanksgiving Break.” Led by Robert Bussey, the session offered valuable advice on how students can use the holiday break productively while staying focused on their studies.
The holiday season is finally here, and many UIS students have returned home to spend Thanksgiving with their families. After weeks of hard work, they’re savoring a well-deserved break from coursework, classes, and the demands of college life. While it’s a time for relaxation, it’s also crucial for students to stay focused as the end of the semester approaches.
Fall classes wrap up on December 7th, and after the holiday, students will face the challenge of finals. It’s important for students to make the most of the break by staying productive and preparing for a strong finish to the semester.
The first step, according to Bussey, is for students to assess their current standing in the semester. They should review their grades and decide if they are satisfied with their progress or if they need to put in more effort to finish strong. If there are any outstanding assignments, students are encouraged to check with their professors and refer to their syllabus to see if they can submit them for partial credit rather than risking a zero.
Bussey also recommends students review upcoming deadlines to stay organized and identify areas for improvement. For the most accurate update on their grades, students can reach out to their professors or check Canvas.
Next, Bussey discussed the importance of planning ahead for the holiday by reviewing syllabuses to find out when and where their finals will take place, as well as the format of the exam. If the final is multiple choice, flashcards can be an effective tool for reviewing key terms and concepts.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is essential for students to manage their time effectively in order to achieve ideal outcomes as the semester nears its end. Bussey highlighted the value of a weekly timetable to help students structure their days and prioritize tasks. Additionally, utilizing a monthly calendar or academic planner can assist in organizing deadlines and ensuring all assignments are completed on time.
Bussey stressed the importance of self-discipline in achieving a balance between maintaining focus on their academic responsibilities and finding time to relax. He stated that it is important for students to be realistic about their needs. After months of continuous work since the start of the semester, in August, a break is necessary.
Spending time with family and reconnecting with loved ones should be prioritized during this period. However, students should make productive use of downtime to prepare for upcoming exams and assignments.
Maintaining motivation during the final stretch of the semester can be challenging, but it is necessary for success. Bussey highlighted methods such as journaling or practicing positive self-affirmation to help students stay focused and motivated.
Journaling provides an opportunity for reflection on past achievements and goal setting for the future. Understanding the purpose and importance of tasks can further inspire students to remain engaged and productive in the final weeks of the semester.
By applying the tips shared in the Turkey Talk workshop, students can avoid returning to a week of confusion after a restful break spent with family. After the holiday, UIS students can schedule an appointment to attend the next workshop and develop a study plan tailored to their individual needs.
