Staci DumoskiAs the end of the semester approaches, many students are experiencing additional pressure as they get ready for finals. While classes remain remote, university services are still in place to support students who may be struggling during this stressful time.
“Final Exams’ week is sure to cause anxiety and stress, especially during the challenges of remote learning and navigating COVID-19,” says Dr. Jay Kumar, director of contemplative practices and well-being at the university’s Fish Interfaith Center. He offers this helpful advice: “Take your MEDS – Mindful Breathing, Exercise, Diet, Sleep. Create structure and make a schedule. Prioritize progress, not perfection”
“Be okay with not being okay. Ask for support,” says Dr. Andrew Kami, director of Student Psychological Counseling Services. “Practice being kind to yourself and give yourself a break. Allow yourself to feel the stress. Label the feeling and do something to bring yourself joy. Focus on the things that bring you meaning.”
Students who need a break from studying can take part in a variety of activities this year, from special workout sessions to virtual game nights to relaxing solo activity ideas. Plus, we’ve gathered tips and tricks to help students get through finals. If stress, anxiety and depression become overwhelming, please visit Chapman University Health & Wellness to find the help you need in this challenging time.
This list will be updated as more finals’ week activities are added to the calendar.
Don’t Miss These Stress-Busting Events
Holiday Bingo
Tuesday, December 8, 4 – 5 p.m.
Love bingo? Well, we have the perfect event for you! Join us via zoom for a relaxing game of holiday bingo! You’ll get to socialize with fellow Panthers, get into the holiday spirit and win fun PRIZES! Hope to see you there!
Finals De-Stress Yoga Flow!
Thursday, December 10, 5 – 6 p.m.
Relax before finals with a virtual yoga session led by Brenna Shannon! This flow allows you to prepare your mind and body for a successful finals week. Modifications offered to simplify if necessary. One participant will get a chance to win a premium yoga mat!
Trivia Thursday: Holiday Edition
Thursday, December 10, 8 – 10 p.m.
The final Trivia Thursday of the semester is here! Put your knowledge to the test in a fun round of trivia via Zoom! It’s a great way to meet fellow Panthers, learn new facts and end the semester with a bang! You can register via the link in the @chapmanupb Instagram bio! Hope to see you there!
Midnight Breakfast
December 14 – 18
The University Program Board presents virtual Midnight Breakfast. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook (@chapmanupb) for a week-long set of performances and discounted deals to your favorite breakfast spots in the Orange Circle!
Tips and Tricks to Beat the Stress of Finals<
Finals Week Health and Wellness Tips
Follow @ChapmanFitRec to access content that will help you thrive during finals week. Fitness and Recreation Services will have daily posts from December 7-18 including workout videos, nutrition tips and advice from your favorite GroupX instructors.
10 Tips to Cope with Finals Stress
These tips from Fish Interfaith Center will help you clear your mind and take a much needed break when stress is getting to you. Ideas include prayer and meditation, doing a finger labyrinth or just taking a nap.
Leatherby Libraries: Destress for Success
Ordinarily during finals, the Leatherby Libraries offer 24-hour services — with tables of cookies available on each floor. Though they can’t offer cookies right now, the new LibGuide is offering fun ways to de-stress, including links to puzzles, coloring pages, free streaming video services and pictures of the furry friends of the Leatherby Libraries librarians and staff.
Watch Dr. Kumar’s Strategies for a Smarter Brain & Studying Better
Tunes to Help You Study
The SE Study Jams playlist from the Student Union will help keep you on track as you get ready for exams.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or need help just getting through the stress of finals and the holidays, be sure to check out the Chapman University Health and Wellness site for mental health resources that you can access even while you’re off campus. Someone is ready to help you — just reach out!
