Prepping for LDOC and Finals

The last day of class, commonly known as LDOC, was November 29. Now that classes are over, students are in full swing studying for final exams and finishing up projects. 

I can attest that trying to remember everything you have learned over the entire semester for multiple different classes can be extremely difficult and stressful. 

While it is important to study for finals, I suggest making a plan for studying and sprinkling wellness throughout. This way, your student could get in the studying they need but also make sure they are taking time for their well-being. This plan could be making a study schedule, planning to attend office hours or the Academic Success Center. It can be whatever you want it to be. 

Before I went home for Thanksgiving, I sat down and made a detailed plan of action and a studying timeline. When I got back, I vowed to stick to it to make sure I covered everything. Taking 18 credit hours would have been more stressful without a structured plan.

So far, I have really only focused on academics. 

One thing that is becoming more important this semester than any other is self-care. While your student might be doing lots of studying for exams, it is very important to encourage them to set some time aside for themselves, away from academics and studying. Setting aside some time for yourself is good because it can help avoid that feeling of burning out too fast, and it can help keep somewhat calm during stressful times. 

To give you some insight into the plan I made for this semester, I am definitely planning on making trips to the Academic Success Center, Wellness and Recreation, and office hours for my professors. The Academic Success Center can help with tutoring for lots of classes. They usually pair you with another student who has done well in the class or with a group of students to get you the help you need. Office hours are another fantastic resource. The professor is probably one of the best sources of assistance because they know what you need to know. Wellness and Recreation working in conjunction with the University Activities Board typically hosts events during finals week for students to help alleviate the stress they may be under, so tell your student to be on the lookout for those. 

I hope your students are planning on taking some time next week over the break to relax and unwind after this rollercoaster of a semester, and whether they have a lot of finals or just one, good luck!

– Deeya