How you can use your favorite hobbies to pass final exams

As finals week approaches us, many may feel stressed, excited, anxious or nervous. It is important to know your value as a person and as a student isn’t defined by one singular final that you take during your college career. Having a balance between academics and passions/hobbies that you find important is essential, especially during this last week of classes.

Burnout is real, so taking breaks and finding time to prioritize your physical and mental health is important during these last few days. Final tests, papers and assignments are overwhelming for many, so finding a healthy way to approach them is important. Make a schedule for yourself so that you don’t lean into procrastination.

Procrastination is oftentimes what causes burnout in students, as overwhelming feelings of having so much to do in so little time stresses many out.

A way that you can prioritize yourself during finals week is finding something you know you like to do, watch or listen to (like movies, podcasts, music, etc.) and shape your studying schedule around it. For example, if you’re like me and have a lot of final essays, assignments and papers, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the workload.

After every assignment you complete, reward yourself with a substantial amount of time dedicated to what you like to do. If you finish one essay or assignment, reward yourself with two episodes of your favorite TV show or with a movie break.

If you are studying for an exam, every time that you learn a new concept or topic and understand it fully, reward yourself. It is unrealistic to sit down and crank out five essays in one sitting or study for a cumulative exam without taking any breaks, so it is important to note how you are spending your break time.

Prioritizing what you like to do is how you can find a great balance between the overwhelming nature of studying and the excitement of summer break incoming.