After spending time with my family and enjoying yummy food over Thanksgiving break, it is a struggle to return to campus, shake off the holiday vibes, and really get into a studying groove. As a junior, this is my fifth round of finals week, so I’ve for sure been through the highs and lows of this grind. Over time, I have picked up some effective strategies to get myself back on track and really tackle the end of the semester head-on.

Managing Time

Managing time is essential for productivity during finals. When I return to campus from Thanksgiving break, I write out everything that I have to do for the rest of the semester. From final papers, exams, review sessions, practices, and shifts to attend, it is critical for me to be able to visualize my responsibilities, especially in these upcoming weeks. Further, I write down the times in which everything needs to be completed, allowing me to anticipate when each assignment needs to be finalized, and which periods of time will be devoted to studying. I find that writing out a schedule gives me the opportunity to devote time away from my studies, helping me create some structure and balance while preparing for finals.
Study Successes 

Everyone has their own unique approach to studying. It can be easy to fall into this trap of comparing your methods to those of your peers. Instead of worrying about what others are doing, seek out what methods are most beneficial for yourself. Personally, I benefit from revising class notes and lecture slides. Then, I use the blurt method to solidify all that I know. At the end of my studies, I am sure to further ingrain the information in my head by utilizing the doodling method. I also appreciate group study sessions with my classmates as studying can be extremely productive with peers. Lastly, one of the most important ways to ensure that you are preparing to the best of your ability is by attending review sessions your professor holds. Professors will provide insight and useful information regarding your upcoming exams!

I find that changing study locations enhances my ability to focus on the task at hand. Instead of sitting at the same table in the library for hours on end, move around! Oftentimes, I start off the day in one location, and give myself a task to complete while I’m there. Once this task is completed, I move to another place. This allows me to reset in different spaces, training my mind to stay focused for a short period of time, as opposed to pushing through a bunch of work in just one sitting. Try out different study spots on campus and seek out areas where you feel most productive. 

Don’t Forget Physical Health

During finals, it can be easy to fall into a routine that does not prioritize physical wellness. As I mentioned, at the start of finals period, I write down everything that I need to complete. This structured to do list helps me carve out time to dedicate to my physical well being. Some of my favorite ways to destress or get my mind off finals is simply taking a walk. With facilities such as our two gymnasiums, along with the bike path, I find no shortage of opportunities for taking walks. Walks allow me to move my body without fully exerting myself, leaving me with energy that can be put into studying later.

As a club swimmer, I find practices are a way to take my mind off academics and truly work my body. However, practices typically end the week of finals, giving athletes the opportunity to focus on finals. Even though practice is over, the Tootell Aquatic Center is still open! Be sure to check out what times free swim is available and enjoy a relaxing swim workout. Our two gymnasiums are still open during finals period, check out the hours and go lift or just stretch. 

Other opportunities that allow me to get away from my studies is by simply doing an activity that I enjoy. For me, it is as easy as getting coffee with a friend, listening to music, or reading a book. Consider what activities allow you to unwind and make time during your schedule. 

Lastly, a vital aspect of finals period is focusing on a healthy sleep schedule. Getting the correct amount of sleep is essential to having a productive routine and active mind. Amongst all of your responsibilities, be sure to allow yourself time to rest and reset, as these are essential components to productivity. 

Members of Campus Recreation understand and can recognize the stresses of finals weeks. With this, Campus Rec provides events to get students’ minds off of finals and away from their textbooks. Events like this include workout classes like Glow Zumba, and Stress Less Reading Day. Be sure to attend and check out the mindfulness activities offered for students! Check the RhodyConnect app to view campus events to ensure that you are being well during finals week. Good luck Rams!