As my first semester of college comes to a close, I can’t help but think of all of the exciting things to look forward to. Winter Break is in sight, which means Christmas and lots of time with family and hometown friends is within reach. It’s hard to believe that finals week is upon us, especially after so recently coming off of the Thanksgiving food-train. Since I’ve never had a college finals week before, I’ve had to think of some strategies to balance my excitement for break with the need to prep for the countless upcoming tests. So, collegiettes, here’s a few ways I’m (trying) to conquer my first finals week:
First, I’ve found that the key to getting it all done is taking the time to sleep. Although the occasional late night or all-nighter can’t hurt too much, repeated nights of pushing your limits on homework and essays will just result in more exhaustion tomorrow and poorer quality work and/or memory recall. Getting the right amount of sleep also strengthens your immune system, which is crucial to preventing potential illness so you can remain healthy and energized throughout exam week.
In addition, it’s extremely helpful to make a schedule of when you’ll study and when you can take a break – and then stick to it. Normally, I’ll watch Netflix while I study and do homework, but in the next two weeks, while I study for exams and write my final papers, I plan to dedicate my time to just that. No Netflix, no music, no distractions. Going to the library, especially one of the higher floors, also helps to maintain a high level of focus because there will be less distractions.
Even though the excitement of break can be a major distraction from studying, I also use the promise of break as motivation to get through finals and papers. Every second spent studying is a second closer to break and relaxation. Also, the more you study, the better you’ll do on your finals, which also makes the liberation of break that much sweeter.
Best of luck, collegiettes!