Finals week at the University of Kansas can be a stressful time, but with the right strategies, you can navigate it successfully while keeping your sanity intact. Whether you’re pulling long study sessions at Watson Library or grabbing a quick coffee at The DeBruce Center, here’s a guide to help you power through finals at KU.
Find Your Perfect Study Spot
KU offers plenty of study spaces to fit every preference. Need complete silence? Head to Watson Library’s third floor. Prefer some background noise? The Kansas Union has plenty of comfortable spaces where you can study with friends. For a scenic view, try the fifth floor of Anschutz Library. Pick a spot that helps you focus and stick to it!
Take Advantage of Campus Resources
KU has multiple resources designed to help students succeed. The University Academic Support Centers (UASC) offer tutoring and writing assistance. You can also check out finals study breaks hosted by various campus organizations, often featuring free snacks and stress-relief activities.
Fuel Your Brain
Eating well is crucial during finals. Skip the fast food and fuel up with balanced meals from on-campus options like Ekdahl Mrs. E’s Dining Center or grab a smoothie from The Underground. Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle—hydration helps with focus and energy levels!
Get Enough Sleep
All-nighters might seem like a good idea, but lack of sleep can hurt your performance. Aim for at least 6-7 hours of sleep to help with memory retention and concentration. If you need a quick nap between study sessions, the Ambler Student Recreation Center has designated relaxation areas.
Stay Active
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress. Take a break from studying and go for a walk down Jayhawk Boulevard or hit the gym at Robinson Center. Even a short workout can help boost your mood and energy levels.
Make a Realistic Study Schedule
Cramming at the last minute isn’t effective. Break up your study sessions into manageable chunks using the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused study, 5-minute break). Use planners or apps like Google Calendar to map out what you need to review each day.
Form a Study Group
Studying with classmates can help reinforce difficult concepts. Reserve a study room at Anschutz Library or meet up at The Burge Union for a group review session. Just make sure your study group stays on track!
Don’t Forget Self-Care
Finals week can be overwhelming, so take time for yourself. Whether it’s listening to music, meditating, or taking a walk around Potter Lake, small self-care moments can make a big difference in managing stress.
Know Your Finals Schedule
Double-check your final exam schedule on KU’s official website to avoid surprises. Arrive early and bring everything you need—pencils, calculators, student ID, and any allowed notes.
Celebrate When It’s Over!
Once finals are done, take time to relax and reward yourself. Whether it’s a dinner out in Downtown Lawrence, a Netflix binge, hanging out with friends and roommates, or a trip home, you’ve earned it!
With the right preparation and mindset, you can tackle finals week at KU successfully. Good luck, Jayhawks!
