Finals survival

Five tips to survive the end of the semester

Tony Stark studies for finals by drinking ALL of the Red Bull,  and staying away from distracting websites.

By Katelynn McCartney

The Contraband

Survival mode begins: It’s the first week of December, and time to conquer the end of the fall semester; to see the light at the end of the tunnel; to get through finals. To that end, there are healthier ways to survive finals than pulling an all-nighter. Here are some tips:

1  Get comfortable. Tight-fitted clothing and attire that has to be put back in place with every movement distracts students from concentrating. Wear clothes that are flexible so that it is easier to adjust the body and get in a new comfortable position when studying and taking an exam.

2   Study breaks are essential. Do not try to study day in and day out. Set goals to study for a set amount of time. Then, take a break to let the brain digest the information. Step away from the study materials and do something relaxing and enjoyable (go for a walk, watch an episode of your favorite show, check social media). But remember to set a length of time to break to be able to continue studying; there will be time for another break after the next study session.

3   Eat healthy snacks while studying. Pizza, cookies, candy and other junk foods can make students tired, “sluggish and lethargic.” Junk foods do not sustain long term energy needed to study for things like finals. Instead, choose snacks such as an “apple and peanut butter, carrots or almonds.” These healthy snacks “keep your body and brain awake and study ready.”

4   Watch the jitters.  For the students who need caffeine for an extra boost of energy, take personal notice of caffeine intake. Remember to drink water between cups of coffee to stay hydrated.

5 Remember to actually sleep.  One of the most important ways to survive finals is not to become sleep deprived. Sleep deprivation during finals week can result in confusing, incoherent answers on tests and essays. If it is necessary for a student to study through the night, make sure to take one hour sleep breaks every couple of hours.

Finals week can be stressful for many students. If using some of these tips does not help, the Counseling Center at McNeese State University (McNeese) has counselors available to help students cope with fatigue, stress, test anxiety and much more. The Counseling Center is located in Holbrook Offices across from the McNeese Post Office and is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 337-475-5136 to schedule an appointment.