It is that time of year again. Summer is right around the corner, the warm weather is upon us and summer clothes are being pulled out of storage. The quad is beginning to fill with students relaxing, studying in the fresh air or tossing a Frisbee with a friend. But before we can fully experience summer, we must first tackle that dreaded week in each semester: finals week.
First, be sure to print a copy of your exam schedule. Doing this will help you to see, plan and prioritize. It will help you take the right approach when juggling your work and studies. When scheduling your week, make sure to give yourself time to relax, whether it is a 20-minute walk, lunch with friends or a quick nap. In doing so, you are able to stay somewhat calm throughout this hectic week.
During finals week, if you choose to study late at night, the library is opened past its usual 2 a.m. closing time. Floors one through six are only open until 2 a.m., but you can stay in Starbucks until 7 a.m. If you are not one to get work accomplished back in your dorm, apartment or house, the Starbucks tables are perfect for you.
Remember, the library will most likely be packed, and if your usual table is taken, think about studying somewhere else. Every residential dorm has common rooms, which are perfect for a study group. If you need some quiet to complete a paper or if you study better alone, go to Sykes where the top floor is a quiet floor with comfy chairs and cubicles too.
Food is a necessity and most of us crave snack breaks during a hectic time like finals week. Take-out orders can become essential if you’ve run out of flex and meals. Remember you can always order food online to be delivered to where you are studying for the day.
In addition to studying, you need to pack up your room and spend time with your friends before leaving each other for the summer. It is easiest to pack a little each day so that you’re not stressed out the day you plan to leave. Though everyone has a lot going on, try to plan one day or an afternoon before finals to spend with your friends.
Prepare yourself for survival week and try to attend some of the events on campus. In the past there has been free food for students, therapy dogs to spend time with and games for fun, which can be a great distraction when you’re beginning to feel stressed.
Keep in mind, you will survive finals week. Just take a deep breath and grab a cup of coffee or tea to relax. It will be summer before you know it.
Aileen Assumma is a second-year student majoring in English literature. She can be reached at AA823823@wcupa.edu.