Spring finals are finally on the horizon, and there are more resources and ways to study than ever to help NIU students finish the semester strong. 

For college students, an effective method of studying, a reliable place to get help and an environment that suits them are crucial things to consider when attempting to triumph over finals. 

One of the most important things to do before hunkering down and working on those final papers is to remove any distractions. That includes any social media, video games and anything else that could draw your attention away. 

Make an effort to limit contact with anything that could disrupt your focus and flow, find a nice spot that suits you and take some time to finish any work or studying you need. 

Remember to take breaks to prevent burnout. All college students know what it feels like to push too far and run out of steam. 

As such, it is important to remember to take breaks, so grab a snack or go for a walk. Torturing yourself by studying for five or six hours at a time is not a good way to get work done – you need to rest every so often. 

Remember to start studying as soon as possible and try not to cram. Cramming is far less effective than looking at the material over time and can lead to more stress than anyone needs. 

If there is something you are unsure of, try to tackle the subject now and seek help from the Writing Center or the Learning Center. 

Located on the Ground Floor of the Founders Memorial Library, the Writing Center exists to help students become stronger and more confident with their writing skills and helps with various writing topics and projects.

The Learning Center, located in the basement of Gabel Hall, is a place where students can learn and study while having access to services that can help with completing upcoming assignments and projects such as work tables, computer labs and printers. 

Ashley E. Bartelt, Program Director of the University Writing Center, suggests that all students prioritize time management to have more than enough time to finish assignments and prepare for finals. 

“Sometimes, it can feel like finals is about putting out fires and looking at when the next deadline is,” Bartelt said. “But students tend to feel better about everything if they can look at it and say ‘OK this is when I am approaching this piece’ and ‘this is when I am approaching this piece.’” 

Listen to music, background noise or regular ambiance. Everyone has something they like to listen to while working whether it be a good song or just plain old silence, try out different things and see what gets your gears going. 

There are several places across campus that are each known for their varying studying environments such as Starbucks, the Founders Memorial Library or The Oasis in the Holmes Student Center. 

Everyone has different preferences so choose the one that works best for you. 

Cecil White, a senior majoring in family and social services, prefers to get his studying done in a quieter environment. 

“I prefer to work alone and in a quieter place like the library,” White said. “I recommend the library and department buildings since they usually are empty rooms and have people with the same major. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions.” 

Finals can be a pain and lead to moments of heavy stress and anxiety, but it always helps to take a minute from studying and do something else to ease your mind. Remember Huskies, you got this!