It's already April and the scary thought of finals has taken over our minds.As students, we are expert procrastinators. We have a couple weeks until finals hit us, but that doesn't mean we should wait until the last minute to study.The thought of looking at your syllabus kills you. It's the end of the semester so you should know what is expected in the course. Many people skip looking at the syllabus and now it's the rush to catch up and start that final paper or project. Every day, I tell myself to start working on that 10-page paper for my Italian Lit class or my scene analysis for my film music class. I've been telling myself to start these things for the past two months. I still have not started. Typical me.
So how do college students prepare themselves for finals week? It's easy. Start early. Okay, it might not be so easy. Life gets in the way and things are starting to stack up. Will we ever learn not to procrastinate? Probably not, but we can try to be better about not procrastinating.
The most important part of ending the semester well is being mentally and physically prepared. Mental preparation is important because the amount of tasks that students need to accomplish is overwhelming. Being overwhelmed leads to stress. Stress makes us crazy.
Make a list of things that you need to accomplish so that you are organized. You don't want to be in a frenzy trying to figure out due dates and assignments.
We all should know by now that stress takes a huge toll on our immune systems. Keep calm because that might save you from the pain of getting sick. Pop those vitamin C tablets and stir up an Emergen-C drink. It could save you from keeling over in May. Here are some tips for surviving the final weeks of the semester.
1. Finish term papers a week before finals. It will give you more time to study.
2. Don't stress too soon. Organize and make a list of the order of exams so you know how you should be studying.
3. Get some sleep. All-nighters are not good for your body. If you start getting things done earlier instead of procrastinating, then you can get some much needed sleep.
4. Remember your health. Avoid junk food, caffeine and cigarettes. It'll be hard to give it up, but just remember that it can take a toll on your stamina.
5. Get help. Tutors and office hours exist for a reason. All professors want you to do well, so take advantage of the tutor opportunities. Don't go in at the last minute. Start now. The more help you get, the better off you will be.
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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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