In theory, it sounds like a great week: no class, reduced work hours if you work on campus, sleeping late, and staying on campus for usually only two hours a day. So what’s the downside to finals week?
Oh yeah, taking the finals.
After spending hours in front of your open books and notebooks here are a few ways you can take a break and de-stress. Since most experts recommend studying in mid-size chunks rather than six-hour cram sessions, use these suggestions to help break up your day, or to unwind after a particularly grueling exam.
Since the Christmas season is almost upon us, and class can’t contain you all day, consider making a quick trip to the mall, or even to Wal-Mart. You’ll avoid the afternoon or weekend crowds and potentially get some gifts for your loved ones. It’s a great way to take your mind off the books a little bit.
“I go to the dollar stores. There’s so many around here,” said Jinny Peters, a construction management freshman.
If money is tight, take the healthy alternative. According to Counseling and Psychological Services at UNC-Chapel Hill, it is important to treat your body right, including eating well and exercising.
“I like to run and work out,” said DJ Barker, a senior in graduate studies.
Take a walk around the lakes, do aerobics in your living room or visit the Rec Center. The Rec will be open finals week from 5:45 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. and from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., except on Friday, when it closes at 7 p.m.
If working out isn’t your cup of tea, might we suggest a cup of something else? An all-time student study break favorite, of course, is getting coffee.
“I run to the Circle K and get coffee to keep the momentum going,” said Lindsay Hymel, a psychology junior.
Many students bring their books with them to local coffee houses for a change of scenery. Most local Baton Rouge coffee houses are open until at least 10 p.m. The CC’s on Highland remains open 24 hours a day during finals week, allowing even the most extreme night owl access to the caffeinated beverage.
As an alternative to the stimulants of coffee, some students prefer to wind down and relax through deep breathing exercises or yoga.
“I meditate,” said Heather Joe, a biological sciences freshman.
Helpful exercises and meditation techniques can be found in many magazines or online. It is, in many cases, a quick, healthy way to relieve stress and focus your mind for the task at hand.
Other choices for de-stressing may not be as common but can be equally efficient.
Are you the crafty type? Visit Hobby Lobby or Michael’s and purchase a cheap project you can work on to take your mind off the books. The end result can be a nice decoration for your apartment or even a Christmas present for a friend.
Cleaning is a chore many turn to in order to avoid studying. It’s not necessarily fun but it is always productive.
An old standard is, of course, turning on the television. However, instead of watching endless talk shows, pop in an old movie and enjoy time with your roomies as you break together. An even better suggestion to help get you in the mood for schoolwork is to rent something that corresponds to your next final. History class? Try “Saving Private Ryan” or “Glory.” Theatre? Check out “A Streetcar Named Desire” or “Shakespeare in Love.” Mass Communication? Watch “All the President’s Men.” You get the idea.
Of course, there’s always the old reliable.
“I take a nap,” said biological sciences freshman Victoria Case.
Remember that no matter how long you stay up studying, if you fall asleep during the exam, it does you no good.
The relief and the knowledge that you’re off for a month after finals should make surviving the week manageable.