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How to Survive Finals Week: Self Care Tips

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Ohio U chapter.

The most dreaded week of the Fall semester is here– finals week. But there is no need to be stressed because stressing now will just make things worse. So that is why I am here to help you de-stress, relax, and enjoy your week so that you can show your professors what you know and enjoy a nice, long, Winter break.

 

Take Breaks

There is no reason to grind out every study guide, flip through every notebook, or read your entire textbook for eight hours a day, every moment you do not have a final. It’s okay to give your mind a break! Take some time to eat a meal, drink some water, and regain focus before diving into your next study session.

Don’t Be Afraid to Talk to Your Professors About Your Concerns

Your professors want to see you succeed. Ask them for last-minute help on something you may not completely understand yet. It might just be the conversation that saves your grade on the final.

Drink Lots of Water and Eat Decent Meals

This seems like common sense, but we all know that sometimes we get caught up in the chaos and forget to eat. Keep snacks by your desk and a bottle of water with you, so it’s a reminder to make it a priority.

 

Take a Long Shower or Bath

Remember that Lush bath bomb that you keep saying you are going to save for a special occasion? Well, now is your time. Sit back and relax for an hour to help you take your mind off of things. 

 

Make a Study Playlist

There are so many good playlists that help you focus and calm your nerves. If you can’t find one that you like on Spotify, make your own with all of your favorite feel-good songs on it. 

 

Talk to Friends or Other People in Your Classes

Feeling anxious about a particular test? Reach out to your classmate and let them know how you’re feeling. They are probably feeling the same exact way. Just reaching out to a friend and knowing that someone understands the way you feel can instantly make you feel 10x better. Then you can talk about strategies on how you can accomplish your final together instead of by yourselves. 

 

Get Some Sleep

This is the most important tip of them all. Your mind cannot function properly on three hours of sleep! Make it a priority to get into bed at a decent time, turn off all distractions, and sleep a well earned eight hours. You and your mind deserve it. 

 

In general, you should be proud of yourself for getting through this semester, regardless of how you do on finals. College during a pandemic is so difficult. Give yourself the credit you deserve and recognize that it is so awesome you have made it this far. Have an amazing and safe winter break!

 

Savannah Dawson is a sophomore at Ohio University studying Journalism, working towards a minor in Music and certificates in Italian Studies and Sales She serves as the Director of Communications for Alpha Gamma Delta and Recruitment Ambassador for the Ralph and Luci Schey Sales Centre. In her personal life she is a lover of fashion, trying new foods, music, animals, and making Pinterest boards. When she is not learning to play new music, she can often be found re-watching Gossip Girl (again).
Caitlin Hunt

Ohio U '21

Caitlin Hunt is a fourth year journalism news and information student at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. On campus, Caitlin is involved with the Ohio Fellows, Cru, and is a Templeton Scholar. She has served as a TODAY Show intern and a NAJA fellow. In her free time, she takes in as much pop culture as she can! She is always watching tv shows and movies, listening to music and obsessing over the latest Broadway musical. Check out her monthly blog, Caitlin's Pop of Culture to see what she's watching!