Surviving Finals Week

It
’s that time of year – finals week is upon us and everyone is starting to freak out about the amount of work there is to do.
 
But don’t stress. We’re all in the same boat, and I’ve got a few easy tips to keep you sane until you get to leave for Winter Break.
 
1)      Study, study, study. Don’t underestimate this. I know you are all saying, “Yeah, yeah, we know.” But you’d be surprised to know how many people just don’t study for finals. Whether it’s a I-don’t-feel-like-it attitude, or simply a feeling that you don’t need to study to know the material, please please listen to this rule. At least look over your class notes, and skim your textbooks one last time.
 
 
2)      Don’t study too much. This might sound counter-productive, but it’s true. There is such a thing as studying too much. You don’t want to get so burned out that you just give up when you get to the exam. So study, but just don’t study 24 hours a day. Take breaks, eat some food. It’ll help you in the long run.
 
 
3
)      Relax. This is the most important. Feeling stressed and worried won’t help you do well on your exams. Instead, take some time out of your studying schedule just for you. Read a good book, watch a movie, eat some popcorn (calories don’t count during finals week). Take deep breaths before you go in to your exams and remember that it is only a test. They cannot take away your birthday if you don’t do as well as you wanted. Take it seriously, but stop worrying.
 
 
4)      Find a good study spot. You might want to avoid the library this week, however. Although it does boast some great hidey holes perfect for locking yourself away to study, it will most likely be very very crowded. Instead, try Tyler Hall or Hewitt. Not as many people will go there, and you’d be surprised at some of the great little nooks you can wedge yourself into for some quality time with your books.
 
 
5)      Eat healthy. Although junk food is always a great option to get you through your studying, you’re going to want some real food. Ramen isn’t real food. Head to the dining halls and pick up an apple or two, maybe a banana. Get some protein as well, and try to drink water or something besides just soft drinks. Don’t have too much caffeine or energy drinks, either. They’ll make you more stressed. Of course, have that coffee or Coke if you need to stay awake for your tests, but don’t overdo it.
 
Remember, finals aren’t ever as bad as you think they’re going to be. You are all completely capable of doing well, I promise. Take it easy and remember that in one week, you’ll all be home for break.
 
Good luck!