I’m William Repetto, a first-year graduate student at Villanova University. This is the “‘Cat in the Stacks” column. I’m your ‘cat. I’ll be posting about college life, about learning and growing here at Villanova, and, of course, about the Falvey Memorial Library’s role.

The final weeks of the semester have arrived. In the next 14 days or so classes will end, finals will be taken, and term projects will be completed. This ’Cat in the Stacks is here to tell you though, everything’s going to be alright:

Just follow these simple steps to success.

Work Hard

The end of the semester necessitates hard work for success. You will not escape this basic fact, so buckle down and push yourself a little bit. Don’t push yourself too far, though, and only you will know for yourself what that means.

Get Out/Get Some Exercise

Scientifically speaking, exercise helps brain function. While we know this fact to be true, many of us (including me) remain committed to our sedentary lifestyle. For those of you who are like me, just get outside and go for a walk or try one of those classes where I’m not really sure what’s going on, like with these cats:

Kick Your Feet Up When It’s Over

There’s a phrase in English that goes “that’s a life you can hang your hat on.” It speaks to a full life well lived, one you can proudly hang your hat at the end of. This week is kind of like that. Don’t finish your week and think “Well that’s behind me. Now what’s next?” Take the time to admire your own accomplishments. Kick your feet up and reflect for a while.

These are three very basic steps toward optimal mental health. You will have some ups, and you will have some downs in the coming days. If we keep these steps in mind, however, you and I will both make it through this unscathed.

(Also, revisit these cat GIFs when you can – courtesy of GIPHY – especially that first one, for a some inspiration courtesy of some cute felines, who are very pure, according to Hunter.)

Article by William Repetto, a graduate assistant on the Communications and Marketing Team at the Falvey Memorial Library. He is currently pursuing an MA in English at Villanova University.