I'm not afraid final exams are here, I'm just surprised to see that they're back so soon.
They crept up slowly, and even though I've known they've been looming all year, I didn't realize their impending doom until they started to nibble at me this week.
Late-night studying, hours of paper writing, stressing over final projects. For the first time this semester, I actually thought about doing these things.
It seems like there's something due in every class. It's a conspiracy.
But still, most of the buildup is my fault. I procrastinate. I put things off until the final second, and then I cram like sardines in a can. Canadians tell me that it's not a healthy practice.
I know there are a lot of people like me, those who don't work until the last possible moment. We let things pile up, and then try to fit everything in a forced moment of clarity.
Sound familiar?
It's bad for you, you know? Studies have shown it can lead to poor morale and have unhealthy side effects.
Additionally, it may lead to higher levels of stress, which in turn, affects performance, especially in high anxiety situations such as important, timed examinations.
Still, there are ways to avoid the pain that comes with procrastination.
I try to take advantage of the finals stress-reliever activities on and around campus.
The most traditional preparation activity I go to is the Finals Breakfast at Manzy Square.
The night of Reading Day, Manzy Square, the Memorial Union and Sahuaro Café become beacons of pancakes, omelets and other breakfasts for dinner. It's a night to reload and refill.
I recommend this event mostly to on-campus students because of the ease of accessibility, but to anyone who likes maple syrup as well.
It's open to all students, and best of all, it's free.
The event also offers test reviews and stress-relieving activities to help students get through the night.
Another way I avoid the high stress of studying is doing it in an atmosphere where it's easier to relax.
Hayden Library is always a relatively quiet and peaceful place, and local coffee shops like Three Roots and E-Joy Café are close, comfortable alternatives, where local musicians often lighten the mood.
Still, so I don't overload, I always remember to take time for myself.
Concerts, movies and other forms of entertainment are good alternatives, as are video games. But be careful with the games. We all know they're addicting.
I like to go outdoors and walk my dog. It helps get my mind working.
Naps, I take lots of naps.
And television. It's mindless, so it won't put any wrong ideas into my head. Sports are the best alternative. Go Devils. Hire Dave McGinnis.
But the classic way I get finals relief is by going out with a few friends and having a good time. Because no matter how much finals try and weigh you down, your friends and a beer can always pick you up.
Or at least help you forget.
Happy studying.
Ty Thompson is a journalism senior. Reach him at: tyler.w.thompson@asu.edu.
