Finals Week: prepare, relax, finish strong

Congratulations on making it to the end of an eventful semester. Although this semester has come with unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you persevered and made the most of it.

Finals are going to look different this semester, because they are all online. For some, this will be a bit of a challenge, but during this time it is important to check-in with your professors to ensure you are prepared and have made all the necessary accommodations in order successfully complete your exams. This is the time to show how much you have learned throughout these past 16 weeks, hone in your study skills, and figure out which study methods work best for you at this time. Ask your peers, professors, or other faculty/staff what has worked for them in the past while studying and preparing for an online final exam.

To help you become acclimated with the new changes, I have listed some tips for the upcoming final exam season. 

Online final exam tips: 

  1. Make sure you understand the instructions and guidelines before taking your exam 
    a. Check that you have the right date and time to take the exam.
     
  2. Study! 
    a. Some tests may be open note or open book, but you should still go over the material to avoid spending too much time on a single problem. 
    b. Familiarize yourself with the material so it is already in your mind. 
    c. Take practice exams if they are available to you.
     
  3. Find an environment in which you feel most comfortable 
    a. There should be no distractions when taking your exam.
    b. Find a spot where you feel at ease.
     
  4. Check to see if your computer, tablet, or other electronic device is functioning correctly. 
    a. Some tests will be proctored so make sure your audio and webcam are working.
    b. Make sure you have stable Wi-Fi connection and an outlet nearby. 
     
  5. Keep track of the time
    a. Set a timer on your phone for how long you have to take the exam.
    b. One thing that I like to do when taking an online exam or quiz is set my timer back 10 minutes from the the allotted time I have just so I know, my time is almost up.

    c. When taking the test, if you find a question difficult, write that question down so you don’t forget and come back to it later.
     
  6. Check your answers! 
    a. Allow yourself enough time to go back and check your work before you submit the answer.
     
  7. Ask questions 
    a. Do this before your exam preferably, you do not want to be confused about anything going on. Make sure to get all the information you need before taking your exam. 
     
  8. Relax
    a. Take a deep breath and remember you are more than prepared to ace your exam! 

Once finals are over, summer has arrived! You will want to make the most of your summer by applying yourself and exploring your interests and true passions. Making the most of your summer can be extremely beneficial to you in the long run. Here are some ways you can stay involved during the summer: 

  1. Take a summer class:  Whether you will be taking a core class or a class that explores your interests, this will help you stay engaged over the summer and learn new things.
     
  2. Get an internship:  An internship will give you more insight to the career field in which you are interested. You will also be able to network and establish meaningful connections with other professionals in your field. Developing and refining your skills as well as gaining valuable work experience are things that will benefit you.
     
  3. Volunteer:  This can be anywhere! It’s important to help out your community in any way that you can. 
     
  4. Take on some DIY projects:  You can do this by yourself or with friends and family. You never know where your creativity can lead you! 
     
  5. Read a book or start journaling:  This can help with self-reflection and keeping your mind stimulated.
     
  6. Start working out and practicing more self care:  Taking a holistic approach to caring for yourself inside and out is vital. Find things that make you happy and make you feel good. 

Again, congrats on a job well done this year! Good luck on finals, and have an amazing summer. See you soon, College of LAS! 

Blog Source

Amber Redmond

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