Sometimes Spring Quarter can feel like running a marathon! Staying locked in on studying can feel impossible especially when the gorgeous weather is calling your name through the window. I’m here to hopefully offer some helpful tips to our GDB community on how to stay energized and motivated throughout this final stretch of the academic year. Let’s break free from the slump and finish strong—here’s how!

1. Switch Up Study Methods

By this point in the year, you’ve most likely fallen into a routine with your study habits. But as the spring quarter picks up, it’s the perfect time to try something new to avoid burnout and keep your brain engaged.

• Study in a new space: I know I’ve fallen into the habit of staying home and studying in my room most of the time. While this is comfortable, I find that my motivation is fleeting, especially with my phone and bed right next to me. If you haven't already, explore some of our campus’s many study spaces or even the study spaces near your residential areas. Perhaps try taking your work to a campus bench, a sunny patch of grass, or even a café with outdoor seating. The fresh air and change of scenery will give your brain a much-needed rest while still allowing you to stay productive. 

• Find a study group: I know it's not for everyone, but I've found that having a study group is a game changer for me. Not only is it less painful than studying alone, I also appreciate having my friends there so we can keep each other accountable for completing our work. Since my friends and I tend to get distracted talking, we often set timers and work for 30 minutes and then take a 5-10 minute chat break. If you haven't tried it already, I definitely recommend it as a way to make studying more enjoyable.

• Utilize campus resources: UC Davis has so many on-campus resources to help you be the most successful and balanced student possible!

  • Success Coaching and Learning Strategies: the OEOES has many services to help you manage your time and achieve your goals!

2. Get Outside and Explore Springtime Campus and Downtown

The energy in the air changes as the weather warms up, and spring is the perfect time to take a break from the books and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a quick study break or a way to relax, exploring campus and downtown can help you recharge.

• Explore downtown: Luckily as Davis students, we have our lovely downtown right at our doorstep. Downtown Davis is gorgeous during the springtime with blossoming trees and community events such as Farmer’s Market and art shows! Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a local café or browsing a bookstore, stepping away from your studies for a little while will boost your mood and motivation.

  • https://davisdowntown.com/events/

• Attend campus events: Davis is known for our springtime events such as Picnic Day, Lawntopia, and the Whole Earth Festival. I HIGHLY recommend attending these events! They offer a way to connect with our campus and student body.. Take advantage of these events to relax and connect with classmates outside the classroom. Participating in social events or just enjoying the vibe of a sunny campus day can help you de-stress and feel more refreshed.

3. Boost Energy Levels: Healthy Food, Snacks, and Sleep Schedule

As the final quarter progresses, your energy might start to dip, especially with late-night study sessions and heavy workloads. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to staying energized and focused. Aggie Compass Aggie Compass' Nutritious Food Resources is a very informational webpage on everything involving healthy and accessible food near you! Here are some tips on how to fuel your body and mind through this last stretch:

• Try healthy snacks for sustained energy: Avoid the temptation of sugary snacks and opt for healthier options that provide long-lasting energy. Snacks like mixed nuts, Greek yogurt, and fresh fruit can keep you full and energized. The temptation to fall back into a caffeine addiction as the quarter picks up is tempting (believe me, I know), but it could be beneficial to opt for green tea or Gatorade to stay hydrated without harming your sleep schedule.

• Eat for brain power: Incorporate foods that support brain function into your meals. Omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds can improve memory and focus. Whole grains, leafy greens, and protein-rich foods can provide sustained energy without the sugar crashes. A balanced diet will make a huge difference in how well you perform during study sessions and exams.

• Prioritize sleep: I know it's been said a million times but truly good sleeping habits are an underutilized success strategy. It's something that many of us strive for but don't end up achieving because we feel like we have better things to do. Well…most of the time, we don’t. I know I’m guilty of trying to go to bed at a decent time and then scrolling on my phone for hours. That is NOT more important than letting your brain and body rest and recharge, I promise. To help mitigate the temptation, try to set limits for yourself about phone time in bed. It's not fun, but trust me you’ll feel so much better in the long run.

• Stay hydrated: Spring’s warmer temperatures can lead to dehydration, which can drain your energy levels and give you a headache. Water is your best friend. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and aim for at least 8 glasses a day to keep your energy high. Explore our campus H2O map to find where to get a water bottle refill!

The spring quarter can feel like a tough climb, but with the right strategies, you can finish strong without burning out. Mixing up your study habits, spending time outdoors, and fueling your body with healthy food and rest can make all the difference. By staying energized and focused, you’ll not only get through the quarter—you’ll do so with your best performance.

Take a deep breath, embrace the beauty of spring, and keep pushing toward the finish line. We’ve got this!