Hello! My name is Abby Dunker, and I am the Family Assistant for the SOAR program. I am in my second year at MSU, so I wanted to share some tips that helped me while navigating finals.

The holiday season can be filled with festive fun, but for college students, it can also bring added stress from finals, family gatherings, and deadlines. I am here to provide some practical tips for navigating the season with a little stress and a lot more joy!

• Creating a realistic study schedule for finals: This is an important first step that can help you focus on finishing the semester strong. List all your finals, projects, and deadlines, then break each task into manageable steps.

• Set specific daily goals: This helps prevent last-minute cramming and to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• After each study session, reward yourself with something small, like a favorite snack or a short walk: I have found rewards can make studying feel more bearable and keep you more motivated.

• Carving out a study space: A quiet space without many distractions can help you stay focused.

• Don’t feel guilty about taking a break: Even 5-10 minutes of downtime every hour can help you reset, recharge, and improve your focus.

• Balance is key: Try to balance studying with some holiday fun! Plan study sessions around small social activities like catching up with friends or watching a holiday movie. Giving yourself things to look forward to can make studying more manageable.

• Reflect on Your Wins: Take time to recognize your hard work this semester. Every step forward is an achievement

The holiday season may bring its own challenges, but with the right strategies, you can find your balance between studying and enjoying holiday activities. Remember, taking care of your mental and physical well-being is just as important as acing your finals. Be kind to yourself, celebrate your progress, and make time for the holiday season!