Let me officially welcome you to dead week, fair readers. We are three days in, and it is time to get serious. If your life these days is anything like mine, you probably barely had time to pick up this paper today. That’s O.K., because now that you’re taking a few seconds away from sucking down coffee and zealously studying, let me offer you some advice: At the end of this week, take some time for yourself to relax.

For those of us who are 21 and over, there is, of course, the Hillsborough Hike. Celebrated on the last Friday of regular classes, the Hike is pretty straight forward. Like its newer counterpart, the Haunted Hillsborough Hike, the goal of the regular hike is to have a drink at every bar from East Village to Player’s Retreat sans costume. 

Not only is the Hike a fun way to chill after a chaotic week and before the frantic race to the end of fall semester, it is also a great way to commiserate with your fellow students about said misery.

Don’t worry if you aren’t 21 yet or if you would rather choose a healthier way to de-stress. There are plenty of other, even cheaper ways to have fun.

If you have already seen both of the movies playing at Witherspoon this weekend, catch the Wolfline out to Blue Ridge Road and the other $1.50 theater in the area. They have a good selection, but be warned that the popcorn is rather pricey.

If you want some thing a little more ridiculous, the Rialto on Glenwood Avenue plays The Rocky Horror Picture Show starting at midnight. You are welcome to join in the show, though it’s probably a little chilly to wear lingerie this late in the year. And if you happen to be a Rocky virgin, be prepared for some personal space violations.

Good clean fun can be found in the area via laser tag, miniature golf, go-carts and pay-to-play video games. You can also return to your pre-exam, childhood days by taking a study break in Pullen Park. The swings are always lots of fun.

I know that it’s a little early to plan for relaxation, but in between all-nighters at D.H. Hill, please plan for some down time. Your brain will thank you for the break, and your friends will enjoy the excuse to step away from a lit screen just as much as you will. One warning for the hours you’ll be removed from a four-pack of Red Bull, however. Just be wary of caffeine withdrawal, because headaches and compulsive yawning are no good for anyone.