The end of the semester is near, and we all know how nerve-wrecking it is to enter final exams.

Although several students are involved in extracurricular activities, basketball season officially started in early November and continues through the break.

Point guard Shakera Barnes shares how she balances basketball with final exams.

The women’s basketball player believes that the sport is something that you not only sign up for but also make time for.

Because she committed to the team, it is not hard for her to remain stable.

One way she does that is attending at least four weekly study hall sessions implemented by Head Coach J.J. Riehl.

She also studies outside of school when she has free time.

“My family keeps me motivated. I don’t want to disappoint them,” Barnes said.

Teammate Khiani Clark additionally helps Barnes by just by lending an ear.

“She helps me stay sane,” Barnes said of Clark.

On the court, Barnes and Clark lead in points scored, averaging 13.5 and 11.5 points respectively in each game.

Currently, the women’s basketball team is 3-5 and has a home game Thursday at 5 p.m.

Barnes’ most stressful days are Tuesdays and Thursdays when she has to wake up around 4 a.m. for basketball practice, then make her way to class, later head to study hall hours and then juggle individual practice times with studying for her next class.

“I try to get my work done ahead of time so that I don’t have to cram everything in at one time,” Barnes said.

Her tips for what students can do to enjoy themselves are activities like going out, listening to music or just talking to a friend.

“Find something that makes you happy; do something so you won’t stress so much,” Barnes said.