With finals week on the horizon, I understand the mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a touch of anxiety that comes with it. But knowing what to expect and having some survival tools in your arsenal will help you through this intense yet rewarding time.

Whether it's a comprehensive final exam, a research paper, or a presentation, finals week typically involves assessments that carry significant weight in determining your overall course grades. Be prepared to spend long hours hitting the books, reviewing lecture notes, and revising course materials. The key is to stay organized and create a study schedule that allows for adequate breaks and rest. Staying focused is important, but don't forget to take care of your mental and physical well-being. It's natural to feel stressed during finals week, but remember that you're not alone. Reach out to classmates, professors, or university support services if you need assistance or just a friendly ear to listen.

Your Finals Week Survival Kit:

1. Plan Strategically: Create a detailed study plan outlining what topics you need to cover each day leading up to your exams. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Stay Organized: Keep your study materials, notes, and resources neatly organized to streamline your revision process. Consider using digital tools like Google Drive or Notion to maintain a centralized place for your study materials.
3. Utilize Resources: Take advantage of university resources such as tutoring centers, writing labs, and academic advisors to seek assistance and clarification on challenging concepts.
4. Prioritize Self-Care: Remember to prioritize self-care amidst the chaos of finals week. Set timers for yourself so you remember to take short breaks to recharge your mind and body. Take 30 minutes to walk outside, get fresh air, and enjoy a bit of sun.
5. Fuel Your Body: Get plenty of sleep, stay hydrated, and eat nutritious meals. Consider grabbing a few instant meals from ​The Cumin Club​ for a quick bite to eat during your study sessions. Their meals take less than 10 minutes to prepare and have an authentic taste. ​Check out this video for our review!​ Again, set a timer if you tend to lose track of time while studying so you don't forget to eat and sleep!
6. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine to help alleviate stress and improve focus. Stay motivated by celebrating small victories along the way with a toffee or two.

Remember, finals week is just a temporary hurdle on your journey to academic success. Keep pushing forward, stay resilient, and never hesitate to ask for help when needed. You've got this!

Cheers ☕