Persevering Through Finals Week: Some Tips from the Graduating Class

Finals week is an anxious week for students on University Hill. Between final projects, presentations, papers, and tests; it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, unprepared, and void of motivation. Thankfully, we are not left to our own. I recently interviewed four graduating seniors who were kind and gracious enough to provide their tips, tricks, and tactics when it comes to studying and preparing for Final Exams and Projects.

Faith Myers

Q: How do you manage studying for all your finals around the same time?

A: I am a visual learner, so when I prepare for finals I usually try to write out what I need to know and find ways to remember that information in a way that it sticks after the test. I have also learned that it does me no good to go somewhere to study if I still have my phone out and insight, or if my laptop continues to notify me of emails, texts, or any other messages that break my concentration. So, I usually leave my phone on "Do Not Disturb" or even away from me so that I can focus.

Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to students when preparing to take Finals?

A: Definitely take advantage of tools that help you study, both electronically and elsewhere. I would also encourage students to take time to be outside, or to do something they enjoy; life is more than just finals, and it is important that studying does not become the only thing you do in a day.

Miles Murphy

Q: Where do you study for Final exams and what atmosphere do those places have?

A: When I study, I usually go to one of two places. For more intense studying, like for my exams, I go to the first or second floor of the LC. It's quiet and allows me to study well with no distractions. For less intense things, like papers and projects, I usually go to the Coffeehouse. I know that I can be a little more relaxed and still get my work done to the best of my ability.

Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to students when preparing to take Finals?

A: Prioritize rest. God did not create us to do good work so that we can rest, He created us to rest so that we can do good work. Prioritize rest so that you can do the good work the Lord is leading you to do.

Helen Hibbs

Q: What is your routine for studying for finals?

A: First, I start off by making a playlist of music I can study to so that when I go to the coffeehouse or library, I am not distracted and can focus. I use Quizlet and flashcards to memorize concepts and terms and always make sure to have a snack and coffee with me when I am studying. I usually block off specific times I will need to study so that it doesn't get away from me. I know that the Lord is in control and whatever grade I get, Christ still defines me. I always make sure to get a good night's sleep before each day I have finals and make sure that I am resting in between finals.

Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to students when preparing to take Finals?

A: Always remember that the Lord is in control. Your grades do not define you, He does. Take a deep breath! Don't let your work overwhelm you, and get good rest in whatever chance you get. Block off times to study and rest, because it will help you tremendously, and lastly, be confident through it all.

Andrew Daniel

Q: What are ways that you study that help you better prepare for Final exams?

A: I take it one step at a time. It's easy to get overwhelmed by a multitude of things. In the past, I tried to do everything as a whole and it would only overwhelm me. I prioritize the dates I need to work on things, and I ask the Lord to help guide me and my mindset as I study.

Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to students when preparing to take Finals?

A: Remember first that grades don't define you-the Lord defines you. Cling to scripture as you prepare; 1 Peter 5:7 says, "Cast all your anxiety on Him for He cares for you." Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still and know that I am God." Release your anxiety to God, be still in who He is, and be who God calls you to be. Don't put pressure on yourself but do your work unto the Lord and rest in Him.