When I think back to my first semester of college finals freshman year, I remember how terrified I was. You always hear about the stress that college students face in the days leading up to finals week. As I'm getting ready to take my junior year first semester finals, I can definitely say that it is stressful but it doesn't have to be too bad as long as you're prepared! Here are things that I wish I knew before my first college finals.

1. Don't wait until the week before to prepare

That will only cause you more stress! Start preparing almost right after your last exam (before the final) of the semester so you can spread it out and not cram everything in last minute.

2. Not all college finals are cumulative

In fact, most of them aren't. In my five times of Finals' Week experiences, I've only had one or two cumulative finals! It may depend on the school, but they're usually very rare.

3. Finals aren't always an exam - they can be a presentation or paper too (or if you're lucky, there won't be one at all!)

If you aren't a test person (like me) sometimes finals are presentations or papers instead. Personally, I love having a paper as my final because I can take my time on it and not have to memorize a ton of information!

4. Try to keep up with your grades all semester so you don't have to rely too heavily on the final exam

Enough said.

5. Don't stress yourself out

Of course, grades are important, but so are your sanity and mental health! Don't let the grades take over your life.

6. All that studying is worth it

You'll be so relieved when you ace all of your exams!