While it’s important to make changes in your study habits, you don’t have to go through the dreadful finals process alone. Helpful resources are available across campus that can help your studying in a host of ways.

Stephanie Roberts, assistant director of marketing and communications for Hokie Wellness, suggests taking advantage of these events and resources this finals week.

If you need a change of space

Studying in the same space can become tiring and unmotivating. But at a campus as large as Virginia Tech, there are countless places where you can begin or end your finals studying. While Newman Library might seem like the obvious choice, the library is swarming with students this time of year and finding a seat might become a challenge. Instead, check out the various Virginia Tech Reddit threads on study spaces to find a new quiet spot on campus.

Here are a few tips to help focus your efforts and avoid burnout while studying for finals.

If you need to take a break

Relax and reset from your studying at Finals Extravaganza. This annual event is hosted by Cook Counseling Center. Grab snacks, play games, and hang out with therapy dogs to give your brain a break Wednesday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lobby of McComas Hall.

If you need to talk it out

TimelyCare is a free, virtual service that gives you unlimited access to mental health support and health coaching. This platform includes access to TalkNow, a 24/7 on-demand and unlimited emotional support to talk about anything, including anxiety, depression, and school-related stressors. It's available to you whether you're on campus or off campus.

Whether you are struggling with burnout, or this time of year is especially difficult for you, TimelyCare is a great way to get support, regardless of when you need it.

If you need a support group

FEELS Peer Support Circle is a mental health support space that is for students and run by students. While this time of year can feel isolating and draining, FEELS is a great space to work on the shared challenges many students face and the helpful coping strategies they can use together.

“If you find yourself feeling anxiety and stress during finals, this is a great way to take a break and connect with others,” Katie Cooper, a FEELS senior trainee facilitator, said. “You’d be surprised to find that a lot of us are struggling with the same issues, and FEELS is a safe space to share what’s going on in your life.”

The FEELS Peer Support Circle meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 7, will be from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.  in 207A Newman Library.

If you need some rest and relaxation

A successful finals season doesn’t just include hours of studying. It also requires resting and recharging. While there are many ways to do so, check out the various Mindful Campus Practice spots on campus to meditate, reflect, or be with nature. There is a QR code at each location that opens a short, guided mediation.

More finals resources are available online.

Written by Cyna Mirzai, a senior and an intern for Virginia Tech Communications and Marketing

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