It is the time of year that many students both fear and love. As finals week gets closer, more and more students get stressed at the thought of the last test of the semester.
This is the time of year that classes start filling back up as end of the semester projects become due and teachers start reviewing for finals.
As much as finals are dreaded, in a way they are also loved. Finals mean the semester is about to end and students have a month off to recuperate from the stresses of the semester. For some students, finals means that commencement is soon and the years of hard work they have put in will pay off as they graduate.
Whether students are graduating or coming back in the spring, both groups have the stress of that final week of class. To help deal with the stress of finals week, the Office of Student Life offers activities to help students de-stress.
According to Liz Howard, student activities director in the Office of Student Life, there is a Stress-Free Zone every semester. The purpose of the Stress-Free Zone is to help students de-stress a little. The events will be held in the Glen D. Johnson Student Union Dec. 11-13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The best thing a student can do to lower stress is to get enough sleep. According to an article written by Laurie Beth Harris on nextgenjournal.com, “Depriving yourself is counterintuitive to studying. You’ll be able to better remember what you’re studying if you’re well rested.”
The article goes on to say that waiting until the last minute to study for finals can put you under additional stress. The sooner you start studying, the more prepared you will be. Also, keep in mind that you’ve been working hard all semester long and this will be reflected in your finals.
When studying gets overwhelming, there are ways to make it fun. Form a study group with friends, or study in a spot that is peaceful.
While we are at the beginning of December, there are still many days when the weather is nice. Take advantage of it by finding a quiet spot outside when it comes time to memorize things for a final.
Speaking of memorizing things, it might help to make up funny or outlandish mnemonic devices to help remember a massive amount of information.
Another thing that will help relieve stress during finals is to take a break. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America said, “Take a deep breath and count to ten.” This is especially helpful if a student starts to get overwhelmed when studying. Even a short break can help relieve stress.
For students who might have trouble finding something positive about finals, keep in mind that finals signal the end of the semester and the beginning of winter break. Soon fried brain cells will be able to recharge and rest before the spring semester starts.