With the semester winding down, the stress of upcoming finals and the end of classes can become overwhelming. As we gear up for finals, Campus Rec seeks out ways to enhance wellness during this time period. Final exams can bring about a lot of stress and chaos. Campus Rec makes it possible to explore various outlets to enhance well-being. 

 Part of our mission here at Campus Rec is to provide students with wellness, especially during this chaotic time of the semester. Personally, I enjoy taking Group Ex classes during the finals period. These classes are a great way to get out of the library and work out in a low-stress and high-spirited environment for an hour or so. Classes are also structured and taught by instructors, that way it allows students to get in and out of the gym in an hour or less while getting a good workout in. Click on this link to view the Group Exercise schedule for December. 

Besides Group Ex classes, Campus Rec hosts other events for students to decompress towards the end of the semester. Stress Less, Splash More is an event that encourages students to attend Tootell Aquatic Center and spend some time in the pool and away from the books. This program will take place on December 10th from 2 p.m.-3 p.m. The pool acts as a great tool to unwind and destress in a low-stakes, non-pressure environment. Bring some friends or just yourself down to the pool, get wet, and chill out. Be sure to check out the Tootell Aquatic Center’s hours here and take a study break in the pool! 

Another thing that really lets me unwind is the Bike Path. This is one of my favorite Campus Rec facilities, proving to be a scenic way to relax and reconnect with nature. Whether you want to go on a long run or just a quick walk, the Bike Path is the perfect place to get away from my schoolwork and unplug. With the weather getting colder, it is also a good idea to take your daily walks and run indoors. The Fascitelli Fitness and Wellness Center and the Mackal Cardio Room have plenty of bikes, treadmills, and stairmasters available to students. The Mackal Field House also contains a track available for student use. Be sure to take advantage of these facilities, especially during the exam period when breaks are necessary. Don’t forget to take time to recharge, reset, and create time for yourself during this finals period. 

Try New Things

Finals period can prove to be a mundane time. Something I struggle with is locking into too much of a specific routine and then losing motivation early on. To counter this, a good habit to practice is changing up your routine. Whether this is something as small as going to a different study spot or trying out a new coffee order, adding something new to your routine can prove to be a motivator and trick your mind into having more energy.  

Take up new hobbies throughout this finals period. This can be something as simple as drawing or reading a book during study breaks. Make sure to exercise both your mind and body as you push through the end of the semester. Good luck wrapping up this semester, Rams!

By Erin Mullaney
Major: Political Science and Criminal Justice
Graduating May 2026