Finals week is approaching, and as a schoolwork-swamped, stressed-out college student, pre-finals anxiety is almost inevitable. Unfortunately, sometimes this anxiety is unavoidable, as many of us are concerned about doing well on these last exams to end the semester with a bang. Despite this nearly inescapable apprehension, there are things that can be done to lessen it.
Study groups, of course, are always a great option to help ease pre-finals stress and make the exams seem a bit more conquerable, but what about when we have been studying for hours, days, even weeks on end and just need a break?
Fortunately, Ohio University has quite a few little events that can help get rid of any stressed-out and anxious emotions — or at least alleviate them.
Thursday of finals week, Alden Library will host two hour-long “study break” sessions. From 3 to 4 p.m., Button Making Craft Break will take place as a way for students to channel any built-up stress caused by upcoming finals and use it in a creative way. Then, from 6 to 8 p.m., Alden will host a BINGO Study Break for students to take a breather from studying and play some old-fashioned bingo with friends and fellow classmates.
If you’re more interested in active pursuits, various facilities at OU are also offering other events that can be used as outlets for any pent-up stress.
Bird Arena has recreational skate hours in which students are able to come in and ice skate, which can most definitely help combat any pre-finals anxiety. Students are free to go for some pre-finals week skating Thursday from 8:30 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 1:30 to 2:50 p.m. and Sunday from 2:30 to 3:50 p.m.
If neither crafts, game nights nor recreational activities are up your alley, and you’d rather do something more relaxing, Baker University Center has the perfect events for you. On Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m., OU’s University Program Council will host a “pre-finals destressing event” in Baker Ballroom. At this UPC event, students are welcomed to enjoy aqua massages and paraffin waxing while utilizing a punching bag, taking part in a yoga session, and enjoying complimentary snacks.
Regardless of your style of de-stressing, OU has a variety of free, on-campus events that are open to all students as a way to vent any stress or anxiety being experienced during pre-finals week. If you plan on attending any of these events, be sure to invite your friends and classmates to tag along with you — going with others will only make it more fun.
As finals week is approaching quickly, stress and worry about final grades is expected; nonetheless, it doesn’t have to consume you. Studying is important, but be wary of studying too much, and know that it is OK to take a break every now and again.
Bri Shaniuk is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. How do you get through pre-finals stress? Let Bri know by emailing her at bs714714@ohio.edu.
