Everything is all fun and games at FSU until it’s finals week, especially in the fall. The temperature seems to have dropped overnight, the sun goes down at 6 p.m., and you now have to worry about studying for about four exams that all take place during the same week. This can cause anxiety and stress that may feel like it follows you from the end of Thanksgiving break to the second you leave your last exam. In moments of academic intensity, it’s important to remember that everything will get done and you deserve stress-free moments even during overly busy times. Â
Treating yourself during the week leading up to finals week and in the thick of it is so important. Allowing myself to unwind a bit has given me the strength needed to finish the semester and ensure I don’t experience academic burnout. Here are some activities and indulgences that have worked for me, and may be able to ease your finals week-induced headache as well.
1. Savor a Sweet Treat
While you dedicate countless hours to studying and typing up your final projects, remember that you deserve something sugary to help compensate for your tireless efforts. There are many coffee shops around campus, like The Sweet Shop or Lucky Goat Coffee, where you can quickly grab a vanilla latte and pastry of your choice. This can help you stay caffeinated and alert while also snacking on something tasty that will take your mind off studying for at least a few seconds. Â
2. Take a Nature Walk
While Wakulla Springs may not be a feasible option to visit when you’re trying to cram for your Calculus exam, simply embracing the outdoors has benefitted me multiple times. Tallahassee has beautiful natural landscapes, and if you’re on campus, there is nature all around for you to immerse yourself in. Taking a walk with my favorite music blasting as I walk through the greenery of campus always helps me to alleviate stress. Â
If nature isn’t really your thing then I’d suggest walking around the mall. Nothing calms my nerves like an Auntie Anne’s cinnamon pretzel and some new accessories. It’s warmer inside than outside during this time of year, as well. Â
3. Find Your Funny Friend
Laughter and socialization can be some of the best medicines for me when it comes to stress and tension. Although locking yourself alone in your room or in the library may seem like the most effective way to cram in as much information as possible, it’s important to also speak to those you care about. Â
Catching up, laughing, and gossiping with friends always helps to make my anxiety about upcoming exams disintegrate as I focus on the company in front of me. Whether it’s meeting up at the Union or calling my hometown best friend, human interaction has been healing when I’m very stuck in my own head.
4. Set a Study Schedule
While being in the heat of finals week can make it seem like there’s no end in sight, it’s important to have a plan of action. This will help allow you to schedule breaks and times when you can forget about your academics for a while. During your planned study breaks, you can incorporate any of the previously mentioned activities or simply take a nap. Having a set schedule can allow you to prioritize what exams need the most attention and which ones you can relax a bit more about. Â
Finals week and the weeks leading up to it can seem daunting, but it’s important to still relax and remember the things you enjoy doing. Allowing yourself to rest is something that can in return benefit you mentally, emotionally, and academically. Â
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Pinterest!