Stay Calm and Just Take The Final

We all know what's coming up ahead.With last minute projects or assignments during this season, everyone is running around trying to get stuff done. But the most important of them all is FINALS. We all dread for them to come and we also dread the preparation for them. Here are a couple of tips to stay calm during finals week.

First, make a schedule and stick with it, there is no point in making one if you're not going to follow it. Examine all that you have to finish before your exams. Create a study schedule that gives you the perfect amount of time to spend on studying for each exam.  Creating outlines are also a big help. When it’s time for you to study a certain exam, study just for that one exam - stay away from distractions and focus! Try not to study too hard before the night of your exam. Give your brain a chance to soak in all the information you’ve been studying.

Second, working out is the best way to relieve stress and blow off steam. You can visit the Texas A&M International University Recreational center for fun classes and activities. Third, eat clean. Eating healthy is always better on your body, and it also helps your brain function. Going for a jog, riding a bike, even hitting up the gym is an awesome way to release all that stress that is built up during finals week. In addition to clearing your head and allowing you to focus, studies show that exercise can also stimulate brain activity – allowing you to perform better during test time.

Fourth, SLEEP. You may think that pulling all nighters benefits you, but it doesn't. Sleep helps you stay focused and be a better you when it comes to being productive. According to Dr. Philip Alapat "Memory recall and ability to maintain concentration are much improved when an individual is rested.” The more rest you obtain during finals week the more focused you will be during the exam.

Last but not least try making a couple of visits to your college relaxation center. It is located in the TAMIU success center. If you are currently enrolled in TAMIU, you have access to free counseling. Walk-ins are welcome. A counselor can typically see you within a week or so. Oftentimes they can see you the day of. Counselors can assist you with:

• Emotional, personal, educational concerns

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Adjusting to College Life

• Healthy interpersonal relationships

Don’t let the stress of finals keep you from doing your best. Good luck on your studying!

khloetorres@dusty.tamiu.edu