As I write this, here at Michigan State we are in the midst of finals. You know, that dreaded week of exams, the one that determines if you are going to pass your Chemistry class and your sanity. Did I just see you cringe? Good, that means you know what I am talking about.
In one word, this week can be summed up as chaotic. You have three exams, two papers, and that final project due within a span of seventy-two hours. Sometimes, you feel like your brain is about to explode. Maybe it already has and you are trying to squish it back together. However, there is a way to avoid serious brain-burstage. In fact, I am here to give you a few simple tips and last minute answers on how to keep your sanity intact during this insane week.
First and foremost, breathe. That is the most important aspect because one, you need air to live, and two, it helps you relax. Seriously, take a moment and sit back in your chair. Breathe in slowly. . .and let it out with a sigh. Ok, now you are in a condition to continue.
Second, organization is key during this week of insanity. “What?” you say. “I thought learning last minute Medieval History facts was the essential part. . .” Sorry to disappoint, but that is not it.
See, during stressful periods, like finals week, most of us tend to lose it. We get overwhelmed with things to do, stuff to study, and that familiar friend of ours, procrastination. However, this can all be solved through some serious list-making and time-managing. It is the simple step known as organizing that can be overlooked at moments like these. But I promise, it might just save that brain of yours from becoming a handful of slush.
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So, get out a pen. And a piece of paper. I invite you to list out your exams, papers, and projects. I know it may seem overwhelming, but just do it.
Now, look at what is due when. Create a new list, prioritizing each test and due date. This will help you when you wake up in the morning and ask yourself, “What do I need to get done today?” It is like when you go to a buffet. At first, it can be overwhelming. You have no idea what you are going to eat because there is so much food! However, if you look around a bit, see your options, and then go get one plate at a time, you can tackle the whole thing with confidence and much less stress.
However, organization is not the only thing necessary to conquer this evil five-day period. In fact, sometimes it can even be your enemy. “What?? But I thought you just said. . .” I know; stay with me. When you organize, color-coding your priorities and listing out the plan for the day, I invite you to add in one simple thing: an hour to relax. Amidst this chaos, sometimes that is the thing we forget; however, it can often be the very thing we need. To illustrate, I shall continue with the buffet metaphor: have you ever eaten so much that you are full? However, you have yet to get your money’s worth, need to win the bet against your brother in the number of plates you can eat, or just really want that slice of cheesecake. But you feel like you are about to explode! In these situations, do you shove food down your throat or sit back and rest, digesting for a moment? Hopefully, you picked the latter. Sometimes, you need to let it all soak in by pulling away for a moment.
So, set aside an hour or two each day. Try to forget about studying for sixty minutes while you go grab a coffee with your girls; pop in a movie and chill for an hour and a half. My friend and I have been slowly making our way through The Lord of the Rings trilogy these past few days. It is a nice thing to look forward to after cramming for our French and Spanish exams. And who can deny Orlando Bloom and Viggo Mortenson? Talk about a way to unwind! Not only do they save Middle Earth, but they also save my sanity!
The point is, among this busy time, take a breath and relax; put that free hour in your schedule. Trust me: it will help. But overall, I wish you luck on your finals this week, already knowing you will triumph. From one student to another, I understand what you are going through and I hope you take my advice to breath, to organize, and to relax. Finish the year with a bang; may your pen have all the answers. And as my good friend Effie Trinket from The Hunger Games says,“May the odds be ever in your favor.”