Shows you shouldn’t start watching during finals week

Stranger Things: As one of the top shows on Netflix right now, this American science-fiction/horror series will demand your attention all day long. Every episode draws you in and leaves you on a major cliffhanger, making it nearly impossible not to click “play next episode.” And because every episode is about an hour long, you could easily use up all of your precious studying time catching up on season two. Don’t do it—save this one for winter break. 

The Office (U.S.): What college student hasn’t binge watched “The Office” at least once? Sometimes it’s necessary to take a break from all the stress of school and get in a good laugh, but once you start watching this show, you’ll have a difficult time stopping. With punch line after punch line, Steve Carell will have you sitting on your couch all day indulging in this fan-favorite comedy series. Don’t watch this show during finals week. Your grades will thank you.

Friends: Almost everyone has seen a rerun of “Friends” at least once in their life. Despite the show ending over a decade ago, it is still one of the most popular series ever made. This feel-good show is super relatable, too—so much so that you almost feel like you’re sitting alongside the crew at Central Perk, sipping on a coffee and avoiding going to work. If you start watching this show during finals week, odds are you won’t “go to work” and get your studying done, so save it for winter break.

Game of Thrones: If you aren’t already obsessed with “Game of Thrones,” it’s probably because you haven’t watched it yet. Now is not the time to give in to the hype and buy an HBO cable package, though, or you might wake up in a daze two weeks later still glued to your coach, speaking only Dothraki and having missed all your finals. Save this epic, medieval fantasy for after exams. You’ll be thankful you did. 

Gilmore Girls: Absolutely do not start watching “Gilmore Girls” during finals week, or you might just fail all of your classes. The cast of quirky characters, the witty banter and dizzying fast talk, and the enviable mother-daughter relationship between Lorelai and Rory Gilmore are enough to draw you in and keep you watching for hours. For the sake of your grades, save this one for winter break.

Parks and Recreation: Who doesn’t love Amy Poehler? Witty, hilarious and determined, Poehler’s character Leslie Knope keeps you coming back for more. In fact, the entire cast is made up of comedic superstars, each of whom fits perfectly in their respective role. This show is the definition of “binge worthy,” so make sure you finish your studying and papers before starting it.