Mastering Finals at Kent State: A Guide to Success and Serenity
As finals week draws near at Kent State University, students often find themselves engulfed in a whirlwind of books, notes, and overwhelming emotions. Scheduled from May 5 to 11, this crucial time can be both daunting and reassuring, as it brings about not only challenges but opportunities for success and growth.
The Pressure of Exams
According to the National Library of Medicine, about 32% of students experience heightened stress levels during finals, marked by discernible psychological and physiological signs. Sophomore Sam Timar, a nursing major, exemplifies the proactive approach needed by delving into her studies weeks ahead of the exams, dedicating nearly 30 hours weekly to careful preparation.
Tips for Taming the Exam Beast
The Cramming Conundrum
Katie Finch, an academic coaching coordinator, emphasizes steering clear of cramming. She suggests creating an organized study schedule that allocates time for each subject, balancing study with personal moments and rest to maintain motivation.
The Multitasking Myth
Despite the temptation to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, a Harvard Business Review note highlights a drastic 40% drop in productivity due to multitasking. Instead, focus on creating a priority list, as Finch recommends, while choosing productive environments like libraries or tranquil outdoor spaces to study.
Relieving Stress the Right Way
The Academic Success Center presents ‘Study and Stress-Free Tables’ during finals week, offering environments for group and solitary studying with amenities like earbuds, whiteboards, and fun relaxation tools such as coloring supplies and bubbles.
Apps like Calm and Daylio Journal, along with Timar’s favorite stress-busting activity, gym workouts, complement efforts to remain calm and focused.
Transformative Results
With newfound study and stress management strategies, Timar has transformed her academic performance, achieving higher grades than ever before. Preparing well ahead of time, she states, is the secret to conquering the exams with confidence and poise.
For Kent State students, the message is clear: embrace organized study, avoid multitasking, and incorporate relaxation techniques. Prepare not just for exams, but for personal growth and success.
As stated in KentStater, the combination of these strategies ensures a rewarding and less stressful finals experience at Kent State.
