As the weather gets colder and Winter Break nears, college students can hardly wait to go home, sleep in their own beds, and shower without shoes. But before the relaxation begins, we must endure what is arguably the most stressful time or our lives: finals week. A whole week dedicated to us consuming ungodly amounts of caffeine, not getting enough sleep, and undoubtably experiencing at least a few mental breakdowns! Whether you have final papers, projects, exams, or all three, here’s how to survive this week of Hell.
Plan Ahead
Mark the times and dates of all of your exams in your calendars or planners, so that way there aren’t any finals that sneak up on you. Also, being able to actually see your schedule in front of you will allow you to plan out your study schedule. Being organized and planning ahead is a life saver when it comes to finals week!
Use Your Study Time Wisely
Put your phone on Do Not Disturb mode, play some background music (if that helps you!) and then get to work. Try to limit all of your distractions, because you only have so much time to study for each final. Go to a quiet place, whether it’s the silent floor on the library or a study room in your dorm, so you won’t be distracted by other people. For me personally, studying in my dorm is less effective than studying in the library, because I am more tempted to lay in my bed and take a nap rather than actually do my work.
Take a Breather
Have you ever done so much work or thought so much about something that your brain literally feels fried? Of course you have! To avoid frustration, tears, and anxiety, take some time to focus on something else. Listen to your favorite songs for a bit (here’s a playlist of all my favorites), hit the gym, or even take a fifteen minute power nap! Letting yourself catch your breath and distracting yourself for a small period of time allows you to clear your head and study and/or work more efficiently. If you try to work through the frustration of not understanding a few calc problems, you’re more likely to explode from anger and stress rather than retain significant information from studying. Deep breaths, friend! It’s gonna be okay.
Here’s a picture of me during finals week in only my junior year of high school:
It may feel like the longest week of your life, but exams will come and go and life will go on. Once finals week is over, treat yo’ self to your favorite dessert or Starbucks drink! You deserve it, after all. Best of luck to my fellow stressed out college students!
Happy studying!
Xo,
Happy Chappy