It’s finally that point in the semester, finals week.
This is my first experience with college finals and I want to give advice for anyone attending college next semester or maybe even next year.
It’s a stressful time in for college students because finals can either make or break you. It is the week where many may cry or feel relieved. Here are some tips to keep you sane, help you do your absolute best on your finals, and take away some stress you may be feeling.
Space out your studying.
You do not want to wait until last minute to start studying because it’ll make memorizing the information in each of your classes so much more difficult. I would suggest dedicating one day to each class, allowing a full day to create note cards, study guides, and so on. Trying to study for every class in a day won’t benefit your time, and you’ll have a good chance of forgetting some of the information. SO DON’T PROCRASTINATE.
Remember to ask work for time off.
Make finals week a priority, because I made this mistake. I didn’t ask for time off because I forgot to, so I’m juggling 40 hours and school. You are not super woman/superman. There are 24 hours in a day, 8 of which you should be using to get a good night’s sleep. Work is second to your education, you can make up for the hours taken off the week after finals are over. Trying to sit at a computer after a long work day isn’t going to help you, it’ll make focusing so much harder.
Cry. We've all been there.
I know it can be stressful to think of all the deadlines and expectations you need to meet in order to pass the class. During finals week, it’s okay to let your frustration out and cry to your heart’s content. I promise crying could really help you feel better and allow you to collect yourself and feel more comfortable sitting down to tackle studying.
Put yourself in a relaxed state.
Go to the kitchen and grab a snack, plug in your aux cord and play your favorite station on Pandora, and change into comfy pj’s. By doing this, you’re unwinding and allowing yourself to work to your full potential.
Go somewhere quiet.
If you’re trying to study in the living room with the Patriots game playing and family screaming to the refs through the screen, that won’t make it easy to concentrate on your classes. I know your family and friends will understand if you separate yourself from football Sunday or family game night to study up.
Remember the semester is over after this.
You’re so close to finishing, so don’t throw out the towel till you’ve handed your teacher your A+ final. Don’t give up and stop trying just because you know the end is so close. It’s still important to finish strong, so do your best and you’ll do great!
I want to wish everyone trying to survive finals week good luck! You are not alone, and this stress will all be worth it when you get your degree. Keep pushing and continue to make big strides!
