Finals got you down? Stressed about the end of the semester? Well, I’m here to remind you, we are almost there. We can see the finish line! Whether it’s projects, exams or papers you’re stressed about, take some of these tips to help you finish out strong.
With only one week left in the semester, it might seem like stress and the feeling of an overwhelmingly busy to-do list are unavoidable. Whether it’s projects, exams or papers you’re stressed about, here are four tips to help ease some of that stress:
1. Don’t procrastinate
This might be how you are feeling… but you don’t want that! I used to think I did my best work under pressure, but in fact, it’s the opposite. I wouldn’t look over things, and I would frequently make errors. In the end, my grade would suffer. Procrastinating just makes for more work in the end. Practice good time management such as using your planner, making lists, setting a timer for a number of minutes or hours to work, etc.
2. Take frequent, short breaks
You can find an overwhelming amount of research that says taking frequent, short breaks while studying is beneficial for retaining information. This allows you to study hard for 35 minutes, and then take a 5 minute break. Taking the breaks gives you a chance to actually study harder for that short burst of 35 minutes and everyone needs a small break to eat or stretch. Try the Pomodoro method! This website has a great timer to help you be super productive for 25 minutes, and break for five.
3. Get your 7-8 hours of sleep
If you study a little every day, you should be using the process of sleep to gain a better understanding of the material! Sleep also helps us maximize some of our qualities that we need to do well on tests, like recalling information, concentration and alertness. Research from the University of Georgia Health Center shows that students who get six or less hours of sleep can have lower GPAs than those who get eight or more.
4. Don’t forget that you need to take care of yourself
Going days without showering is not a good idea. You need to eat right, take time to relax, mix in some time for exercise to reduce stress and increase blood flow, and take some you time when you needs it. Don’t get stuck in the mindset that “it’ll be over soon”. Take the time to rest your brain, and it will thank you in the future.
Good luck to everyone during this stressful time of the semester and know that we are all in this together. There are resources for managing stress at Counseling and Wellness Services. To make an appointment call 507.457.5330 or visit their website.
The library as well as Kryzsko Commons will have extended hours for students. Kryzsko Commons and the Student Union will be open 24/7 and the Darrell Krueger Library will have extended hours during finals week.
– Edited by Hailey Seipel (12/02/2019)
