Freedom is so close. I can almost taste summer. All that stands between me and the end of the semester is another 50 pages of papers, an outline for my thesis, packing, and an exam. Easy right? So I may be looking at a few late nights, more Starbucks than I can afford, and maybe a few panicked freak outs. I’m sure you understand my pain. But there is good news! You know that no matter how miserable it is, everything will get done. So, here are a few tips about finals to remember thanks to the smartest witch of our age, the incomparable Hermione Granger.
1. Doing well is in the details.
If you can remember that it’s LeviOsa, not LeviosAR, you’re sure to score points on your exams. Make sure you not only know big concepts, but the essential elements of a theory while you’re studying. Practice makes perfect.
2. When in doubt, go to the library.
You have a 12-page paper due in two days and you haven’t started, it is time to go to the library. You will want to get there early, especially if you need a plug. Don’t worry, Hermione is annoyed that everyone has finally decided to start studying, too, if only they had started a bit sooner. You were busy though, so stake out your spot and get to work.
3. You already have everything you need to succeed.
Take a minute to breathe and take stock of everything you have to pass your exams and finish your papers: notes, practice tests, former exams, articles, your textbooks, your Hermione equivalent friend…you still have time to cram and crank out those pages. Don’t panic! You’re smarter than you think.
4. It’s ok to be frustrated.
Sometimes we all wish we could physically beat up our final papers, projects and exams. Sadly, that isn’t possible, but it is perfectly ok to express your frustration- just don’t take it out on your friends!
5. “Books and cleverness? There are more important things…”
Sometimes it’s hard to remember in the heat of the moment that your grades aren’t the most important thing. There are more important things in life and one poor grade isn’t going to kill you. Try to keep things in perspective.
6. Remember, “Once you’ve dotted your I’s and crossed your T’s, you may do whatever you please.”
You’re so close to being done. Don’t skip the editing or studying for your last exam. You’re almost done! Finish strong and then you’re free!
BONUS!
7. Ron: Finals are unfair.
You may feel like you are being oppressed or unfairly overworked. Ron would agree with you, but don’t let Hermione hear you. Keep at it, you’re almost free.
8. Snape: If you die, you don’t have to turn in your assignments.
Death is not recommended as a way to get out of your exams, but it will free you from any obligations. Maybe try faking a hippogriff injury like Draco, your professors are sure to take pity on you then!
9. Dumbledore: Final exams aren’t important.
Sadly, Notre Dame has not decided to cancel exams. We can dream though!
10. Dobby: Patience and persistence pay off.
Everything you’ve done all semester and all you are doing in the next week will pay off. Keep working hard. It’s only a matter of time before you’re FREEEEEEEEEEE!
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