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Tip of the Month: Beating the Finals Fever

With the end of the quarter near, you may find yourself feeling ill-prepared or struggling to keep your cool. Remind yourself that you have made it this far and it will all get done. With the right tips, strategies, and resources you will soon conquer the quarter and indulge in all the bliss that it brings. Learn how to gear up for finals season with these tips.

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 Tips for Supporting Yourself During Finals

  1. Ask For Help: Don’t forget your professors and TA are there for you! Whether it’s a tricky assignment or a confusing concept, don’t be afraid to seek help, as intimidating as it may be. Professors, tutors, and even your study buddies are there to have your back. Know that it's a strength to ask for support!
  2. Take Study Breaks: Sprinkle short breaks (think 25-30 minutes) between study sessions. Stretch, stroll, or zen out with deep breaths. It’s like hitting a brain reset. Champions use breaks to keep the energy going and avoid burnout! By embracing breaks, you can be more productive and ace your finals!
  3. Focus on 15-Minute Wins: Feeling overwhelmed? Kickstart productivity by committing to just 15 minutes of focused work. Choose any task, set a timer, and tackle it head-on. Whether it's creating a study guide or doing the dishes, this technique works wonders. Embrace discomfort, challenge yourself, and turn tasks into a personal game. Small victories lead to significant progress!
  4. Manage Testing Anxiety: Combat test anxiety by planning for effective preparation to ensure comfort and confidence. Get a good night’s sleep (prioritize 7 - 9 hours of quality sleep and stick to a consistent wake/sleep time), enhance brain function with proper nutrition, and practice positive self-talk or mindfulness to boost your confidence. You can also try different relaxation techniques to calm yourself during the test. And of course, don’t be shy to seek academic accommodations and services that may be available to you. 
  5. Sleep and Exercise: By sticking to a regular sleep routine, you can relieve your stress, better retain information, and improve cognition. Regular exercise can also help reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your overall health. This doesn't have to be anything intense either! Going for a brisk walk, practicing yoga, or a quick workout will do just the trick. Don’t forget to prioritize self-care for peak performance.

Written by: Edward Tran, Class of 2023

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Resources

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