Five ways to survive finals

The end of the year is a time when many PUC students are ready to put away their books and start summer vacation, but studying and working on final exams and papers are big roadblocks to face before then. To make the burden of final exams easier, here are five suggestions from PUC students:

1.      Even though it is difficult, do not put anything off until the last minute.

“Don’t procrastinate,” junior and nursing major Diana Stuebe said. “Keep the ultimate goal of passing in mind.”

When studying for her exams, Stuebe makes note cards for everything and spends two hours studying every subject. When she is studying for a more difficult class, she said she spends extra time looking over the notes for that class as well as re-reading chapters.

2.      Be sure to pay special attention to stuff that confuses you.

“Before a test, make sure to clarify all the points you're confused on so that you'll be prepared for the tests,” senior and media advertising major Jacqueline Bernardo said. “If you've been paying attention in class and keeping up with the homework and various class activities, there's nothing to worry about. In short, if you understand the material, you should be fine.”

3.      When studying for exams, make sure you manage your time wisely.

“The main thing I do is budget my time when studying for exams,” Bernardo said. “I focus on one class at a time when I study. I don't stay up late either. It's better to not go to a test exhausted.”

4.      While studying is important, do not overload and take some time out for yourself.

“I normally try to take mini breaks in between my studies,” biology major Jelena Kolundzic said. “I also have coffee with me and snacks.”

According to an article on collegefashion.com entitled 9 Ways to Stay Sane During Finals Week, if you are able to, “set aside some time for yourself.”

“Whether it’s taking an hour to watch your favorite TV show, or going out to dinner with some friends, or even just browsing Facebook for a while, downtime is essential if you want to keep your sanity during such a stressful time,” the article said. “Taking breaks will give your mind a chance to clear, and you’ll be able to start studying again with renewed energy.”

5.      Work as hard as you can and know that summer vacation is right around the corner.

“Just try your best,” Kolundzic said. “There is a light at the end of the tunnel.”