DUNMORE, Pa.– With the fall semester coming to a close, students are now preparing for the often-dreaded Finals Week and all the extra studying, end of semester projects and stress that comes with this time of year.
Campus Counselor Katherine Stefanelli organizes “stress busting” activities the week before finals week, and this week students were able to take advantage of free massages and pet therapy.
For those feeling the physical effects of the added stress and work as they prepare for final exams, Stefanelli said feeling prepared and taking time for self-care is of primary importance, and students should take the time to take care of themselves.
Stressing too much is counterproductive.
“Planning study time and review time is essential for a positive outcome,” she said. “But stressing too much is counterproductive. Students can find ways to break up study time by taking a walk, exercising or enjoying a favorite movie.”
Also key to preparing for finals week is to not over-stress. “Students can organize their time to study sufficiently while taking breaks when needed, getting plenty of sleep and eating healthfully during finals week.”
Stefanelli said there are also things students can do when actually taking their final exams.
“Let your body do what it does best by giving yourself rest and good nutrition. Focus on your breathing when starting an exam to keep the oxygen flowing and anxiety at bay, and try some positive self-talk, reassuring yourself that you’re very prepared," said Stefanelli. "Then when the final is over, let it go."
DURING FINALS WEEK
The campus’ Learning Center sponsored “Finals Countdown” coffee breaks throughout the week for students with free coffee and snacks in The Learning Center to provide a pick-me-up for students putting in extra studying and work as they prepare for finals. The coffee breaks also brought students into The Learning Center, located in the Hawk Student Success Center, to remind them of the resources available to them.
During finals week, the Center offers a quiet space for studying and also provides free coffee, cocoa and snacks for students as they are studying,” said Associate Director of Learning and Disability Services Eileen Giovagnoli. “We will also have a ‘make and take’ winter craft for a little creative stress release.”
While tutoring services are not available during finals week since tutors have to prepare and take their own exams, writing assistance is still available through the Writing Center. Students needing help can email Writing Center Coordinator Jaime Mosher at [email protected] to schedule an appointment or submit a paper to the Blue and White Owl by Wednesday, December 14.
Giovagnoli also provided the following tips to help students stay on track and improve their grades, maximizing their academic performance during finals:
The campus Library will also be open for students during finals week Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After finals week, it will be closed in preparation for the upcoming construction project.
