Finals week: the infamously dreaded and fearfully-awaited seven days falling at the end of every college student's academic year. It's a stressful time. Students cramming study packets and Quizlet outlines into their heads at 3 a.m., walking into the library (at any given time of the day) and seeing the entire student body set up for camp — it seems frightening, and rightfully so, but it doesn't have to be. To help prepare for the week ahead, here are 5 easy steps to surviving finals.
1. Don't sleep the morning away.
Those first few hours of the day can make a huge difference when it comes down to the wire. The sun will motivate you to get up and go do something.
2. Get out of the house.
Take yourself out of the house and away from the TV, the kitchen and the couch beckoning you to a (likely well-deserved) nap. Studying around people who are also studying serves as a great catalyst to productivity. Try going to the library, a coffee shop or a friend's house for a change of scenery.
3. Caffeinate yo self.
Coffee, soda, chocolate-covered espresso beans — just grab something. It's a great excuse for a five-minute break from studying, and it'll keep you going.
4. Take some time to relax.
It's important to stay focused, but you don't want to push yourself too hard. Take some time to unwind with your friends: run to Cookout for milkshakes, grab some coffee, run around the library — get creative, then get back to work.
5. Make sure to sleep at some point.
It's true. You may actually want to get some sleep in between exams. Make sure you set aside a few hours to rest and reset. You'll retain far more information if you're well rested, and, consequentially, not falling asleep at your MacBook.
