DSU students study together in a library study room. Creating a study group can help give students motivation to finish the semester strong. Photo by Misha Mosiichuk.
Finals week is readily approaching at Dixie State University and students may be feeling overwhelmed by their to-do lists.
Whether you’re struggling to stay motivated or trying to figure out how to balance studying and socializing, here are some tips to finish out the semester strong.
Create A Study Group
Peer Coach Emma Nielson, a sophomore biomedical science major from Boise, Idaho, said she finds it more fun to work with friends, so she recommends students form study groups with other students in their classes.
According to SpeedyPrep, study groups help to prevent procrastination because when studying alone they can put off studying until the last minute. In a group setting, students have to meet at a certain time and come prepared to contribute during the session.
Make a Checklist
When students are overwhelmed by the amount of work they have to complete, it can be difficult to figure out where to start. Peer coach Frankie Medina, a sophomore English major from Los Angeles, said making checklists is her go-to step when conquering a long list of tasks.
“I love making to-do lists because I love checking things off, it makes me feel good about myself,” Medina said.
Checking off items on your to-do list can give you a perspective of what you’ve already accomplished and inspire you to finish what still needs to be done.
Socialize
While it is important to devote time to study and complete assignments or projects, you still need to allocate time to relax and socialize.
Entertainment Events Director Kennedy Thurgood, a senior recreation and sport management major from Clearfield, said staying social helps her to relieve stress. According to Medical News Today, socializing not only helps to reduce stress levels, but also aids in memory and recall skills.
For students looking to spend time outside of their dorms, Thurgood shared two events: Country Swing Dancing on Nov. 19 and Bob Ross Paint Night on Dec. 3. For the swing dancing event, Thurgood said there will be churros, apple cider and the Heart of Country Swing will be in attendance to teach students how to swing dance.
Look To The Future
It is easy for students to get caught up in the difficulty of the current semester that they lose sight of their long-term goals. Medina recommends that students reflect on what they are hoping to achieve during the process of earning their degree.
“Focus on what you’re working towards,” Medina said.
Whether you are focused on getting your dream job after graduation or you are simply trying to finish your first semester at DSU, keep in mind how your hard work now is going to pay off in the future.
Pay Attention To Your Mental Health
Juggling coursework and exams can place a strain on your mental health and if you’re not mentally well, it can be hard to focus on completing your assignments. As a Peer Coach, Nielsen tells her students to visit The Booth Wellness Center to seek help from counselors if they are struggling with their mental health.
“Sometimes it’s nice to just talk it out with somebody,” Nielsen said.
According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, mental health issues can impact a student’s energy levels, ability to concentrate, and outlook on life.
“You put so much work into the semester, so it’s just best to finish out strong,” Nielsen said.
While the end of the semester may bring up anxiety or panic for students, it is important to take a deep breath and realize you are more than capable of finishing the semester on a positive note. Remember there are plenty of other students who can relate to what you are going through, so you are not alone.
