Surviving Finals Week: How CMU Students Are Gearing Up for the Challenge

Story and graphic by: Samantha Bitterman

As the semester draws to a close, students at Central Michigan University are buckling down for the final stretch: exams. Whether it’s late-night study sessions, creative coping mechanisms, or venturing to quiet campus nooks, everyone has their own way of tackling finals week.

For senior Maria Jimenez, a biochemistry major, finals preparation is all about finding a balance. “I live off Quizlet and coffee during finals,” she shared with a laugh. “But I also make sure to get outside for a walk or a quick workout, it keeps me from going stir-crazy.”

Jimenez says her go-to study spot is the Charles V. Park Library. “It’s quiet but not too quiet. And there’s this little corner near the windows where I can watch the snow—it’s peaceful.”

Meanwhile, sophomore Jason Patel relies on group study sessions to keep him motivated. “Working with my friends in the dorm study lounge helps me stay on track,” he said. “We test each other, and it makes studying less boring.”

Patel, who is studying business administration, also tries to mix in some fun. “We made a ‘finals bingo’ where you mark off things like ‘used three different highlighters’ or ‘cried in the library.’ It sounds silly, but it helps lighten the mood.”

Mental health is a priority for many students, including Emily Ross, a junior in psychology. “Finals week can get overwhelming, so I schedule time for self-care,” she said. “Even if it’s just 20 minutes of journaling or making tea, it helps me refocus.”

Ross also encourages students to take advantage of campus resources. “The Writing Center is amazing if you’re stressed about papers, and the wellness programs at the SAC offer great tips for staying calm during finals.”

For some, finals prep means burning the midnight oil. Senior Michael Tran, an engineering major, admits he’s “notorious” for pulling all-nighters. “It’s not ideal, but sometimes you just need to power through,” he said.

Tran has his own strategies to stay alert. “I keep snacks nearby—trail mix is a lifesaver—and I listen to lo-fi music. It keeps me focused but not distracted.”

Students across campus agree on one thing: preparation is key. “Don’t procrastinate,” Ross advises. “Even just reviewing a little bit each day leading up to finals can make a huge difference.”

With finals week just around the corner, CMU students are proving that with determination, creativity, and a touch of humor, they can conquer the challenges ahead.