As finals week approaches, students at SNU adopt a variety of strategies to handle the demands of exams, papers, and projects. While everyone has their own way of preparing for finals, the themes of adaptability, organization, and stress management unite students to end the semester strong.
Students’ methods range from carefully planned reviews to last-minute cramming sessions. Some find success by creating detailed study guides and pacing their preparation over time, while others thrive under the pressure of focused, high-energy study sessions close to the exam date. Sophomore psychology major, Reagan Rowton, shares, “I tend to study intensively the day before an exam. It helps me to focus fully on the material and retain it more effectively.”
For senior history major, Sarah Dodd, the semester’s rigor impacts her study strategies. “If it’s papers, I plan ahead and organize, but if it’s a test, group study and quizzing each other works best,” Dodd explains. Both approaches highlight the importance of adapting study techniques to the specific challenges of each class.
Preferences for studying alone or with a group reflect students’ individual learning styles. Many enjoy the focused atmosphere of solo study, which allows them to dive deep into the material without distractions. Rowton, for instance, prefers studying alone: “I can control my environment and focus on what works best for me, which helps me feel more confident going into the exam.”
Group settings, however, can foster motivation and accountability, especially for those memorizing material or seeking collaborative energy. As Dodd adds, “If I’m studying for a test, being with others who can quiz me helps keep my energy up and builds confidence.”
Organization is key to managing the demands of finals. Detailed schedules, task prioritization, and setting designated study spaces are common practices at SNU. Dodd recalls a particularly effective strategy: “One year, I wrote out everything I had to do, day by day, on separate pages. Crossing off tasks and tearing up the page when I finished was incredibly satisfying.” For others, staying organized might mean focusing on what truly matters. Checking grade books on Canvas and prioritizing assignments based on their impact is another way students optimize their time.
Stress is inevitable during finals, but students tackle it in their own ways. Some rely on breaks, comfort drinks, or pleasant study environments to stay balanced. Rowton’s approach combines focus and positivity: “I try to stay energized with caffeine and remind myself that finals are just one step in the bigger picture of my education. Staying calm and focused helps me push through.”
SNU students blend their unique approaches to studying, scheduling, and self-care to navigate the challenges of finals. Whether through careful planning, group collaboration, or studying alone, they strive to balance academic goals with personal well-being.
Photo by: José Ramos