It's finally here. What seemed like still three months away is suddenly a week away—and those projects that you kept putting off are due. Finals week can be overwhelmingly stressful for thousands of college students. But, there are ways to make it through alive, no matter how impossible it may seem.
1. Sleep And Take A Rest
Yep, I said it. I know that you have multiple high-stake tests to study for and numerous projects to complete, but without sleep, nothing will get done. There is no point of staying up all night if by 1a.m. you've stopped taking in any information and are just staring blankly at the textbook. Your mind and body will thank you if you rest.
2. Go Outside
The library, dorm room, apartment or wherever you are studying will start to feel cramped and suffocating after hours upon hours of studying. Even if it is just for five to ten minutes, take a breather and get fresh air. This will help clear your mind and give you a new start to your work.
3. Clean Your Room
It is easy to feel more anxious for finals if your living space is cluttered and disorganized. Cleaning is an amazing study break: not only will your brain get a chance to rest, but you will feel much more on top of the upcoming week if your study space is cleared up.
4. Sweat Out The Stress
It is all too convenient to give up exercise when you have exams looming over your shoulder. However, one of the best ways to destress and clear your head is to exercise. Running, toning, pilates, you name it, even if you only have 20 minutes to work out, moving your body will make the panic of exams lessen.
5. Eat Some Non-Junk Snacks
On top of exercise being convenient to skip, junk food is also all too accessible during exam week. Don't get me wrong, all college students deserve Doritos and ice cream now and then. We work hard. However, don't forget to eat proper nutrients during finals: not only will it help you avoid the dreaded freshman (or sophomore... or junior...) 15, it will also make you feel much more awake and energetic. This website gives ideas for healthy snacks you can make in your dorm, which also would provide a nice study break.
6. Talk To Others
Yes, you will need to spend alone time to study. However, don't hide yourself in the depths of the library for two weeks straight without any human contact. Make sure to keep in touch with your friends and family, whether this is giving your parents a short phone call or stopping by someone's dorm to see how their studying is coming, or not coming, along. Talking to others for a few minutes will greatly improve your mood and make this week much more bearable.
Exams are hard, but hopefully, all will turn out well and you will make it through yet another finals week!
