During a time that often causes students stress, upperclassmen, counselors and professors gave advice on how to survive finals.

Jamel Lawson, a graduate student studying technology, said he not only deals with finals, but also has to balance that with being in the Army Reserves and ROTC.

“It is difficult to balance everything, but I try to put school first,” he said.

Lawson said being a public affairs officer and president of the Leadership and Excellence Club also take up a significant amount of his time.

“It’s hard to prioritize and still make everyone happy, but I expect excellence from myself,” Lawson said.

Marcellus Dickerson, senior communication studies major, said he has five finals to study for next week.

“At this point, the only thing I can do is study,” Dickerson said.

He said time management is what is most important.

“I pick a certain time to study for each exam,” Dickerson said. “I’m trying to start now so I don’t start cramming.”

Junior psychology student Colby Brooks said she has struggled with the workload in her classes this semester.

“I can only honestly say that this semester is one of the hardest semesters to say the least, and classes are only getting harder,” she said.

Brooks said that study groups or partners are very helpful, even if you feel that you work better alone. She also said that it is important to practice self-care during these last weeks.

“Sleep is important, as well as study breaks and eating balanced meals,” Brooks said.

She said these strategies help her manage stress and push through finals week.

Jessica Hallett, counselor in Eastern’s Counseling Center, advises that handling stress in a productive way is essential for students during this time.

“Avoid people or things that contribute to stress. Pay attention to the company that you keep. Being around others who are distressed may also increase your level of stress during this time,” Hallett said. “Focus on taking breaks from studying with people who are calming or doing things that help you to relax or unwind.”

Hallett said it is also important to avoid caffeine, as it can lead to headaches, upset stomach and anxiety, which is not helpful during finals time.

Jaccari Brown, communication studies graduate student, said breaking down what needs to be reviewed is more helpful than cramming.

“Study in paces, not all at once,” Brown said.

He also said students can keep a positive attitude by practicing positive affirmation through giving themselves motivational pep talks preferably in front of a mirror.

“Study smart. Research shows that we retain and understand information when we review it, then take a break from it, and then review it again,” communication studies professor Richard Jones said.

He also says that waiting until the last minute does not work.

“Take care of yourself. Make time to eat, sleep and have some social time,” Jones said.

Sisi Pascarella can be reached at 581-2812 or smpascarella@eiu.edu.