Preparation tips for Finals!

               That dreaded time of the semester is just around the corner! Finals week is the time of the year where everyone tends to stress over, and where coffee becomes your best friend. Even though this week can be full packed of preparation and anxiety, there are resources on campus that can help you get mentally prepared for finals.

           
                The Student Counseling Center is a service provided by the university to help students with common concerns, including test anxiety and stress management. Through trained professionals, you will be able to get available help in getting prepared or coping with whatever stress you may have going into your finals. For those who are freshman, it might be helpful to use these resources as this will be the first semester in college where you will be taking finals.

                To make an appointment with the counseling center you will need to schedule a meeting from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday to Friday. You may do so by calling 903-566-7254. Walk-ins are welcomed, but there may be some waiting time depending if the counselors are available at the time of your visit. All sessions tend to be 50 minutes depending on the counselor’s discretion.

                Another nice thing about this center is that there is a relaxation room available for you to lounge around and let your mind be free for some time. There is soothing music, couches and recliners and even heated massaging pads available for you. If this sounds like something you might need, you should definitely check it out.

                Some departments on campus offer help in preparing for these tests. One resource I remember using was the math lab in the fourth floor of the Ratfliff Building North where they provided survival kits. These $5 kits are composed of past finals in courses to help practice problems; it also includes a pencil, a soda and a piece of candy. This helped me practice some problems back when I had to take my statistics final and it definitely helped me out. They also provided free help to any students who have questions about math problems.

                So remember, breathe, study and sleep well. It will be OK. If you prepare and manage your time well, you will for sure be able to have substantial grades on your finals. Good luck to you all and may the odds be ever in your favor!