How do I survive finals week? #askingforafriend
April 29, 2026
- Mia KirbyFinals season can be a chaotic time on campus for many college students. Studying for exams may feel overwhelming, and it’s also a time of soaking in precious moments with friends before leaving for the break. There are seemingly endless tasks and social events to balance. But if you’re feeling unsure of yourself, take heart — you are not alone!
Here is some practical advice to help you navigate your way through finals:
1. Prioritize your sleep! You can’t learn unless your brain is well-rested. Give yourself the best chance to finish the race strong.
2. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, make time for a quick walk in the beautiful sunshine. It helps to release endorphins and regulate your nervous system to help with anxiety. This is a great time of year to head down to Speer Pavilion by the river or take Feaster Trail through town.
3. It’s okay to ask for help! Go to all the Academic Success Center’s test preps and study sessions, as well as any prep your professors offer. It helps hearing information several times to take it all in. An added bonus: get a group of friends together to make it more fun!
4. Be sure to stay in the Word and pray. Education is a blessing, and my motivation increases so much when I view it as a way of honoring God. Studying can be worshipful.
5. Dig out that planner you haven’t been using all semester and get to scheduling. The key to a smooth finals season is to stay organized to the very end so you don’t forget that last assignment that may affect your grade. Remember to check the official final exam schedule!
6. If you have not tried active recall, you need to try it ASAP. This is a great way to review your notes and bring back all the information you learned throughout the semester.
7. If you need a late-night study break, make sure to visit the Ouachita Commons for Late Night Cinnamon Rolls on Sunday, May 3, and Late Night Breakfast on Tuesday, May 5. Both events start at 11 p.m. For more information and updates, visit the OBU Campus Dining page on social media.
Lean on your community around you and bring every worry to the Lord in prayer. It’s
okay to be tired and struggle but be kind to yourself, too. Have a blessed finals season
and round out this semester strong. Go Tigers!
Mia Kirby is a tutor in the Academic Success Center and a senior biomedical sciences major from Fort Worth, Texas. For more information about ASC and its services, visit obu.edu/success or contact the center at academic[email protected] or 870-245-5381.
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