Finals are on the way like hurricanes make their way across the Caribbean. A time of stress, worry, lots of coffee and late nights at Morisset that every student dreads. But you know what else is coming? Summer! After the hurricane of finals passes through, the skies open up to warm temperatures, lots of sunshine and beautiful days. But what happens when summer decides to pay a visit during finals? How do you combat trying to stay focused on studying when it’s so nice outside?
Take a Break
It’s always important to take breaks when studying, to give your brain a rest and take a deep breath. After a long study session on the fourth floor, pack the books and laptop away and go outside! Taking a 30 minute walk outside or grabbing a drink at an outdoor patio will not only allow for you to feel that summer sun, but it also allow you to take a mental break and enjoy a few moments of relaxation. You’ll feel refreshed when you go back to hitting the books.
Study Outside
If you don’t think you can afford to take a long break, or are sick of the dark cubicles and florescent lights, consider studying outside! uOttawa has tables in every corner of the campus for you to use. If you prefer to study on a blanket on grass, Tabaret lawn has a ton of space for you to use! Don’t want to be on campus or don’t need internet to study? Ottawa is full of tons of green space, such as Confederation Park, the Rideau Canal, and Strathcona Park, all within walking distance to campus. Studying doesn’t have to be a drag when you can be soaking up the sun!
Cook Summer Food
You don’t have to go on an adventure or even leave your apartment/dorm/house to make it feel like summer! One of my favourite ways to get in the summer mood is to make summer food. Summer food can include items like burgers, watermelon, potato salad, ice cream, or grilled chicken. I also like to order iced coffees and cold drinks as opposed to hot coffee, because it helps trick my mind into thinking that it is summer. Eating food like this will not only satisfy the hunger that builds up from hours of studying and doing work, but will also get your taste buds excited for all the delicious food to come.
Explore at Night
Don’t have enough time in the day to go outside? A perfect time to go take advantage of warm weather is at night. If you’re like me and cannot be pulled away from your textbooks during the day, a nighttime adventure is another good way to relax and take in the summer weather. While it is no longer light out, that summer smell and summer night atmosphere will have you feeling refreshed and ready for exams to be over with! A walk or even a dinner on an outside patio is the perfect cure for the summer lust and will allow you to take a mental break (especially around dinnertime, when you would be taking a study break to eat).
There are many ways for you to go out and enjoy that summer weather. Find what fits you best and try it out; not only will you be excited for that post-exam break, but you will also feel refreshed when you return to your studying. And remember collegiettes, summer is just around the corner! Power through your exams and enjoy the time off!