Dear Bulldogs, Let’s Beat Finals Stress
Finals are fast approaching with the first day the exams beginning Monday, December 12 and ending on Thursday, December 15.
For students, this is a make or break in their college career, despite their grade level. It decides if they have to retake a class or if they pass.
Exams are never fun, especially not finals. However, the break before, Thanksgiving, and the break after, winter break, almost make it worth it.
As stressful as finals season may seem, there are some ways to beat the stress before it comes.
Fresno State is hosting health and wellness events for students to break up the stress.
One event is called “Success Over Stress” and will take place on Wednesday at 11 a.m. This is a virtual counseling group that students can participate in without having to register for it.
When it comes to venting as a way to release stress, the Student Health and Counseling Center offers something called Let’s Talk. No appointment is necessary and it’s available through Zoom Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Another event is in person, called “Breath Out Stress” which involves stretching and a meditation session. This takes place Thursday, December 8 from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Health and Counseling Center’s large conference room.
Fresno State is also bringing back Pet Therapy on Tuesday, December 6 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Library Ellipse Room (near Starbucks).
On Wednesday, December 14 the library is hosting a Crafternoon event called “Craft and Relax.”
Finally, you may need to stock up on snacks. Depending on your sleep and study schedule, food might be pushed to the back burner.
When you’re on campus, and if you have your ID, head over to the Student Cupboard, IT Room 144, and grab some food or a few snacks to keep you energized throughout the finals process.
Also here are some small things that can help diminish stress levels as finals season approaches:
- Buy an adult coloring book
- Make a playlist (I recommend lofi hip hop)
- Make sure you have comfortable clothes (stock up on sweats, leggings, hoodies, and socks)
- Schedule small power naps (this can be 10 minutes of no screen time or a 30-minute nap)
- Create a space for studying (this can be on campus, at home or even in a coffee shop)
- Make sure to pace yourself and not save things for later
Advice: If you give yourself one hour to work on projects without distraction, it becomes easier to finish than if you keep telling yourself that you are going to finish it.