It seems like it is especially difficult to be a student this week with the beautiful weather outside, return of shows like Bones, and major exams for AP and IB students. If you are anything like me, you find yourself distracted and stressed out by the end of the year work-load. Read-on for some tips on how to concetrate and still have fun!

You will hear this many times throughout your life but one more time will not hurt: TIME MANAGEMENT IS KEY. If you are the type of person who finds themselves starting homework too late at night then maybe you should try to make a schedule for yourself when you get home. It often helps me to plan out the rest of my evening with 1-2 hour periods of work and 30 minutes to 1 hour of relaxation time. This strategy is most effective when you can keep to a schedule and it also allows you to watch that episode of our favorite show without feeling guilty!

Another strategy for those feeling overwhelmed is to do some exercise before you start your work. This doesn't have to be extreme Iron Man type fitness but even just a walk around your neighborhood or doing some stretches can help clear your mind and focus better when you sit down to do your work. And if you can get some friends to exercise with you, the better!

You could take up a productive and relaxing hobby like knitting, photography, cooking, playing an instrument etc. to take your mind off of the work you have to do. Anything to help make you feel like your school work is not the only thing you have to do can help take some stress away.

Remember that school is almost done for us, high schoolers, and summer is almost here!