You know that the end of the semester is near when the libraries are busy and the computer labs on campus are filled with students typing furiously.
What material I am studying affects my study location. The computers on campus have monitors that are quite large compared to my personal laptop, so I prefer going to the university when I am working on something that requires a computer. Recently, I have been using the computer lab at the Student Union. There is a general room with computers and printers, and then at the back of the room there is a separate quiet room. The computers in this room have dividers on either side of them, which minimize distractions and creates a great study space. I am someone who needs peace and quiet when working on something or studying, so the quiet room is perfect for me. If I do not need a computer, I either study in the reading rooms on the ground floor of Mullins Library, or at home in my apartment. My apartment has a high kitchen bar counter that allows me to stand while I study. This is a great alternative to sitting all day!
The type of final that you have at the end of the semester depends on the professor and the course you are enrolled in. This year my finals have various formats including a comprehensive final over material from the entire semester, two finals that acts as a fourth exam over new material, a final project, and a semester-long research paper in addition to a final. What makes finals week so stressful, is that all of the exams are in the same week. The key to surviving finals is to not wait until the week before to start studying for all of them. Make a schedule for the weeks leading up to finals with when you are going to study for what subject. This allows you to spread out your studying and not have to result to cramming. And remember to eat healthy, exercise, and to get as much sleep as you can!
-Selina
Fall 2016 finals will begin Monday, December 12th. Mullins Library is here to help with extended hours and study breaks sponsored by our partners across campus. These breaks are free and open to all U of A students. First come, first served!
