semester fatigue

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Specializes in Acute Care Psych, DNP Student.

This is my first semester in school, so I am just learning the routine. We have three weeks left in our semester. I noticed something with my classmates that made me wonder if it's common to just give up a little at this point in the semester. In all of my classes, my classmates who I sit next to, are normally straight A students who are quite responsible - have basically just said "screw it!" These are folks who have never missed one class, get upset if they get a B on a quiz, etc.

For example, in my algebra class, my classmate during break (it's a 3 hour accelerated class) stood up and said "I can't take anymore." He packed up and left. I asked him if he wasn't feeling well, he said I'm not sick, I've had too much. Enough. Bye. In my bio class, my friend I sit next to who's a high A student simply hasn't studied for the last two quizzes and when I asked her if she was ok, and if she'd like to review my 'cram cards' (index cards) before class, she said "I can't take anymore. Whatever."

I have all A's in my classes, and for the first time in Algebra, I got a B on an exam. I simply couldn't bear studying more.

Anyway, I'm new to this, and I am wondering if it's common to burn out in the semester at about this point.

It is definetly common to have burn out during the end of the semester especially before finals. I've been attending school since fall of 2003 to complete my AA in nursing, and every semester towards the end I feel the same way, burned out and frustrated.As a matter of fact I have an algebra and microbiology exam final coming up, and I can't wait till it's all over. My advise to you is take small breaks between studying and getting as much rest as you can.

Specializes in Acute Care Psych, DNP Student.

Oh no. Let this be a lesson to all to not get behind. For the first time this semester (normally I'm near perfect with my studies) I am behind in algebra by 2 chapters. The exam for three of these chapters is Monday. I just found out my grandfather was admitted to ICU and just taken off of a ventilator. I'm told he is going to die and that the funeral will be this weekend.

Let this be a lesson. Don't get behind. I have to fly to another state for this. When am I going to get to study? My poor mother is in agony.

Specializes in Med/Surg, Hospice.

I'm so sorry to hear about your grandpa. (((hugs)))

Specializes in Acute Care Psych, DNP Student.

So odd. Seconds after I posted this thread my mother called with the news. I feel guilty because I feel horrible for the pain my mother is in, but besides that, all I can think of is how I am going to miss classes, catch up and maintain my grades. Ugh.

Specializes in Acute Care Psych, DNP Student.
Specializes in L & D nurse!.
Specializes in HHA, CNA, EKG, Phleb.

Very very sorry to hear that. Hang in there !! I have spring break from school and I am sooo happy for it. I get to catch up on Chemistry. Chem is one of those subjects that are soo hard to get through especially if you fall behind. I will definitely follow your advice and try not to fall behind in anything.

Please know that we are thinking of you. I hope things get better!!

This is my first semester in school, so I am just learning the routine. We have three weeks left in our semester. I noticed something with my classmates that made me wonder if it's common to just give up a little at this point in the semester. In all of my classes, my classmates who I sit next to, are normally straight A students who are quite responsible - have basically just said "screw it!" These are folks who have never missed one class, get upset if they get a B on a quiz, etc.

For example, in my algebra class, my classmate during break (it's a 3 hour accelerated class) stood up and said "I can't take anymore." He packed up and left. I asked him if he wasn't feeling well, he said I'm not sick, I've had too much. Enough. Bye. In my bio class, my friend I sit next to who's a high A student simply hasn't studied for the last two quizzes and when I asked her if she was ok, and if she'd like to review my 'cram cards' (index cards) before class, she said "I can't take anymore. Whatever."

I have all A's in my classes, and for the first time in Algebra, I got a B on an exam. I simply couldn't bear studying more.

Anyway, I'm new to this, and I am wondering if it's common to burn out in the semester at about this point.

has anyone noticed that as the courses go on they get harder and harder which has something to do with the level of our threshold. I just had my last lab test yesterday and it was sooooo much more difficult than the 1st. People get stressed out particularly if they bank on the last test and the final to get "that" grade. I am sorry about your family situation, you will be in my prayers

Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Hemodialysis.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

I think that a lot of students lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. That and college is stressful enough, but when you throw in the other factors such as children, relationships, and finances it gets even rougher.

Specializes in Cardio/Tele.
I'm so sorry for your loss.

I think that a lot of students lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. That and college is stressful enough, but when you throw in the other factors such as children, relationships, and finances it gets even rougher.

That is so true!!! Relationships, children.....add cloudiness to the fog already occurring during the semester. :uhoh3: I do alright during the fall semester but during the spring semester i struggle trying to stay focused. I just get sooooo burned out during the spring.

I am sorry to hear about your Grandpa.

I was just saying to a few classmates of mine how burned out I feel. I always get this at the end of a semester. The good news is that when a new semester starts you do feel a sense of refreshment. (well at least I do) New room, new books, new teacher, new faces. Hang in there.

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