As I am now in my second year of college finals, I know how important it is to have a solid routine down during the study and finals period to avoid going – quite literally – insane. Finals are stressful times filled with anxiety over how tests will go, long days spent in the library, and a longing to just be done and sitting at home with your family. To get through such a period, however, I have found that certain habits and practices can help mediate the challenging final lap of the semester and get you to the finish line.
First, routine is crucial. During finals, I like every day to look the same. While a tad monotonous, it helps you organize your day and make all the tasks of the day seem a touch less daunting. I prioritize getting up, making my bed, getting ready, and grabbing my breakfast/coffee as non-negotiables before I head to the library. Having this solid foundation helps me feel ready to be productive. Similarly, at night, I like to have a similar wind down routine throughout the week. A relaxing shower, cleaned up room, and some time to FaceTime friends or read a book before bed helps me to get the rest I need to do it all again the next day. My roommate and I also love to light candles! Trust me, this helps you relax.
Second, using a reward system is real. My biggest personal reward – that doubles as a studying enhancer – is coffee. I love to take what my friends and I call “brain breaks” and go and grab an iced coffee or hot chocolate. Or, even better, go and get a treat coffee at Starbucks or Dunkin! Another reward that also helps when you’re feeling sluggish or overwhelmed is the gym. Going and walking on the treadmill, stretching, or taking a class at the Jo is a great way to give your brain a break and release the endorphins needed for a night of essay writing or exam cramming. Similarly, getting Vitamin D is essential. Even though it gets dark this time of year, I always try to sit by a window or take a break and get some sunlight throughout the day. It helps more than you know!
Finally, once I am done with exams and back home, retail therapy is one of my favorite ways to treat myself for pushing through such a jam-packed time in college. Window shopping with my friends or buying something I’ve wanted to for a while is my guilty pleasure once I am done with the semester.Â