Surviving the Week Before Finals

Surviving the Week Before Finals Fall break is officially over, and it is time to get serious about the end of the semester. If youre like me, this means writing five papers, doing a few group projects, and preparing for two presentations. Oh, and also studying for the multiple finals I have next week. This can all be very stressful and overwhelming. I have already cried twice this week and it is only Tuesday Here are some tips  I have found to help me around finals week: 1.  STUDY! This may sound obvious, but really. Spend the next week studying so youre not cramming the night before. I find it easier to be prepared in advance so I dont feel too nervous right before the test. 2.  Find a place to be productive. I can work well in my living room with Gilmore Girls playing in the background. However, I know that if I go in my bedroom, I will lose all the motivation I once had. Other places to go include  the library, classrooms, coffee shops, or anywhere else that has comfortable seating. 3.  Sleep, eat, and be merry. Just because one of the most stressful times in your life is currently happening doesnt mean you should stop caring about your health. I know that sometimes I dont get enough sleep because I have a lot going on during the day. A friend suggested I download an app on my phone that helps you meditate. There are a few free apps that play relaxing sounds, have beginners meditation, and even track your sleep cyclesâ€"I found these really useful and easy to use! On another note, although you may not have a whole lot of free time during the next two weeks, taking a break to hang out with your friends is certainly a good idea if you can. Its important to get your work done, but you also need to think about how most  of us will be going back home after finals for winter break, so we need to spend time with our friends here at Illinois while we can! I hope everyone has a successful finals week. Good luck and have a great winter break! Alex Alex Class of 2017 My major is Social Work and I love every minute of it. I grew up in a really small town called Braidwood, Illinois. Before I attended the University of Illinois, I went to Joliet Junior College.