Student Blog: Hell Week: Surviving Finals

Hairspray tech week was the absolute worst time of my life. Every rehearsal started at 9 am and the majority ended around 12-1 am. Every cast member was slowly getting sick. Everyone was losing their minds. However, the show was a hit. Hearing the audience rave about the show was the most rewarding feeling.

That is just like finals week.

Everyone pulling all nighters to study or finish an assignment. Everyone slowly gets sick. Everyone loses their mind. Nothing can beat that feeling of relaxation and realization that you are done.

As finals approach, here is what I do to make it through.

No Time at All

Time is the one thing that could fix the world, and during finals week time is the most important thing. Managing your schedule and compartmentalizing assignments is what helps me remain organized. I am a visual learner and having things written out allows me to see exactly what I need to do. During finals, I order my exams and assignments and tend to focus on one at a time. Whatever one is coming up, that is what I spend my energy on. If I need a brain break, I'll look over what I need for my other assignments to make sure everything is ready to go. Maximizing your time to ensure you are fully prepared is what matters.

The Music of the Night

I cannot stress this enough but please get some sleep during finals week. Resting your body and brain is super important to ensure you are successful on your exams. I am fully guilty of staying up all night to study for a test the next morning, but it is never worth it. Going full steam, your body will rest when it wants to, and it will always be at the most inopportune moment. If you time manage correctly, you can definitely fit some sleep into your schedule. Having a good nights rest will help you to stay foq during exams and keep your brain working at its best.

Teacher's Pet

I get it, being that student who is always asking questions can get annoying, however it will pay off in the long run. Even if you know the material, try to meet with your professor and ask questions about what to expect on the exam, get brief recaps on lessons, and even talk over the study guide. I always have such a clear mind after talking with my professors about a project and things I can do to make it better. They understand how crazy finals week can be and are not looking to fail you. Professors want to see you succeed and graduate. Keeping a good relationship with your professors is such a great way to do well in the class and build a bond that can help you out later in life. I know some colleges are much bigger than mine and going to talk to a professor can be difficult, I urge you to at least send an email or two.

This is the Moment

I am still in denial that I am about to finish and graduate college. Granted, I am getting my master's so I'm not fully done. As finals week approaches, I am getting my schedule ready so I can be as prepared as possible. Let me know what some of your tips for exam week are!