I vividly remember a point midway through my sophomore year of college basketball. The previous year, we'd made it to the national championships, but this season we couldn’t seem to finish games well. We played strong in the first half, but by the fourth quarter, sloppy turnovers would cost us the lead, and the final horn seemed like a relief from embarrassment. I began to doubt whether we could ever finish well, and I remember my teammate Jody saying she didn’t even want to play the second half of the games.  

Our coach switched strategies, giving us each two things to focus on. There was no miraculous change, but the way we played shifted. For the first time that season, I felt proud of our effort, knowing we’d given it everything.  

As the college year winds down, students face a similar challenge — finishing the semester well. It’s not about finishing first or at the top — it’s about showing up, pushing through doubt, and giving their best, even when fatigued or overwhelmed.  

Parents can support their student by offering encouragement, promoting healthy habits like regular sleep and exercise, and reminding them to take breaks. Most importantly, parents should express confidence in their student’s abilities, reminding them that challenges are part of growth. It’s always good for me to remember that just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s bad.  

It’s about cultivating habits that promote learning, growth, and balance — skills that will serve students well beyond the classroom. Remember, just because it is hard doesn’t mean it’s bad.  

Here are some key strategies students can use to finish well:  

1. Prioritize. Just like my coach helped us focus on two core objectives, students can identify key tasks like research papers or finals. Breaking larger projects into smaller steps makes daunting work feel manageable. The Eisenhower Matrix is a great tool for prioritizing tasks by importance and urgency.
   
   
2. Take care of oneself physically & mentally. Physical and mental well-being are crucial to performing one’s best. Prioritize sleep, eat nourishing meals, and incorporate exercise. A cared-for body and mind provide the stamina and focus needed to finish.
   
   
3. Manage time effectively. Sticking to a consistent schedule builds momentum and reduces mental overload. Have your student identify their most focused times of day and commit to a few study hours daily to avoid last-minute cramming.
     
4. Stay connected with your support system. Whether joining a study group, connecting with professors, or seeking guidance from a mentor, building connections can keep students motivated and on track.  

Much like the fourth-quarter strategies transformed our basketball season, adopting intentional practices can help students finish the academic semester with confidence and success.

By Becky Case, Director of Center for Student Engagement