Finals are a hectic time for all students and faculty, but with preparation and time management, this time will fly by.

Although the library is a reliable source for resource materials and quiet study time, some students don’t respond well in this environment.

Senior Megan Hoxmeier, who is majoring in rhetoric and speech, prefers studying in a place with a TV or music.

“I might fall asleep if there is not a distraction,” said Hoxmeier.

Although this tactic works for Hoxmeier, Todd Little, director of the Hawley Academic Resource Center, says a student should eliminate distractions. Along with this goes studying in a regular place where study materials can be ready. Little suggests the library or a personal room.

“Personally, Carver Science Center’s atrium provides an ideal work area. There are people there with whom I can discuss my homework and the atmosphere is conducive to studying in that it is well lit and generally quiet,” said junior Miriah Johnson, who is majoring in biology and Spanish.

Little also suggests students manage time by prioritizing and starting studies a week before finals to be prepared. Instead of stressing out about finals, start studying now by testing over the material, participating in study groups, and break study times into intervals of twenty minutes.

Little also suggests to eat fresh fruit instead of junk food. Hoxmeier disagrees. She prefers a caffeine jolt for studying. “Food is distracting, but caffeine just keeps you going,” said Hoxmeier.

“I try not to snack while studying,” said junior Lacy Carroll, who is majoring in marketing. “If I need a break I try to go for a walk instead of eating. I don’t need the junior 15!”

Hoxmeier is nervous for the week of finals. She tries to keep a positive attitude, review as much as possible and hope for the best.

According to Little, that’s not all students can do. Little says it is good to get a good night’s sleep before the exam, “but don’t over sleep,” he adds.

Sophomore Joelle Bourdeaux, who is majoring in music education, has a different outlook on sleep fitting into her finals schedule.”It’s all about the all-nighters,” she said.

Little also suggests to arrive early to get situated and relaxed before the exam. Also avoid negative attitudes by taking deep breaths.

Little says to get a feel for the physical attributes. These could be how tight the pencil is held, how comfortable the student is and the temperature of the room.

Little says that there is still time to get last-minute help from Hawley. They will do their best to arrange a time with a tutor for students in need. Also, Little will meet with individual students to discuss test strategies and how to overcome test anxiety.

Whether following Little’s advice for your finals study routine or by what seems to work best for you, good luck.