With December just getting started, there are no more pages on the calendar to flip through, and the end of the year is drawing near. This also means the end of the fall semester. Counting down from today, there are less than two weeks left of classes, and finals are quickly approaching. Don’t be stressed out, however! Look below to find ways to end the semester and year ever so happily and merrily.
Dead Friday
For many, Dead Friday may be a familiar concept. Yet, for others (such as the freshman class), it may be something new. So what is Dead Friday, you ask? Basically, it is the Friday before finals week, and there are no classes. It is a day to help you rest and prepare for the upcoming finals week. For Andrews this year, it is the 8th of December. Yet, unlike its name, it isn’t a day to be wasted. Instead, plan to spend it wisely in whatever way that best suits you: getting some sleep, studying, etc.
Study Plan
Many college students are not new to the idea of procrastination and cramming. In fact, most, if not all, have had days when cramming was simply the only way to get through class. However, studies have shown that it is actually ineffective and could backfire on you. According to Standford University, cramming causes “ongoing stress to the brain,” causing “a mental block in recalling information.” This, in turn, will lead to lower test scores. Procrastination also causes greater stress as students try to get more done in a shorter period of time. So, as we look about a week into finals week, try setting up a study schedule and finding time to study a little bit each day. If this seems to be challenging to do on your own, the Andrews University Student Success Center is always available for help. They provide counseling, tutoring, and other resources to ensure success for all students on campus. They are located in Nethery Hall, Suite 210, or can be reached at success@andrews.edu or 269-471-6096. Don’t hesitate to find help!
Sauna
Studies show that using saunas has serious “beneficial cognitive and psychological effects.” They not only relieve stress and anxiety but also improve one’s mood. Other studies show that saunas encourage myelin growth – white insulating sheaths around nerve fibers that speed up nerve impulses. This, in turn, allows for faster information recovery and promotes optimal brain functioning. The Andreasen Center for Wellness offers three types of saunas: dry sauna, steambath, and infrared light cove. Each has its benefits, but all have commonalities in reducing stress and tension and promoting better sleep and relaxation. Aftercare, however, such as proper hydration, is highly recommended.
*Please note and take caution about the time and frequency of each treatment. 15 minutes is recommended. (Consult with your physician for individual health conditions.)
Water
Talking about hydration, one of the basic needs of life is water. However, water doesn't just allow us to live; it actually relates to academic performance. In fact, a study indicated that students who were hydrated during exams scored “an average of 5% higher” than students who didn’t drink water. Water also has further benefits, such as alleviating stress and improving nutrition absorption. It is important, however, that hydration comes from pure water. Other drinks, such as juice, smoothies, and energy drinks, won’t do. Ellen G. White states that “pure water is one of Heaven's choicest blessings…It is the beverage which God provided to quench the thirst of animals and man. Drunk freely, it helps to supply the necessities of the system and assists nature to resist disease” (“The Ministry of Healing” 237.1). As our bodies reflect God’s sanctuary, as those with Seventh-day Adventist backgrounds, we must consider what we drink and eat. So, as you walk around campus, carry a water bottle and refill at the various water fountains.
May God’s wisdom guide you through finals week. Let’s end the semester strong. Good luck!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.