Advice from Sally Seahawk 12/3/19 (Final exams edition)

Genevieve Guenther

I am having trouble trying to handle all of the work that I have do for finals. I’ve got three papers, two final exams and a presentation. How am I supposed to survive all of this? 
Do not take it lightly when I say this but we have literally all been there. While it may seem like your other professors are inconsiderate of the fact that you not only have other classes but that you (like many other human beings) like to eat, sleep and socialize, try to look at things holistically. You have been presented with an opportunity that a lot of people do not get to experience. Going to college is stressful, but so is life. Write everything that you have to do down and tackle them one at a time. Maybe spend two hours working on your presentation, another two hours studying for your exam and spend 30 minutes to an hour doing absolutely nothing. Pace yourself the best way that you now how. College has taught me a lot about self-discipline. It is easy to sit around playing on my phone for hours on end, but in the long run, that is not going to help me graduate. Do not be afraid to ask your TA’s, professors or peers for help. They are there to support you. Do not over do it on the coffee! You got this.
xoxo,
Sally Seahawk
Where are good locations to study on campus? 
My first two years at UNCW, I spent countless amounts of hours in the library. Junior year I took to studying in my living room, and now I spend a lot of time outside of Dub’s getting work done. There are a number of different nooks and crannies that you can find all across campus. A Seahawk favorite would be the study rooms in the Crossing, the Village Clubhouse, or even the couches in both little and big Fisher. If you have looked near and far for places to make yourself comfortable and you are still out of luck, try meeting up with some friends at their place of residence. Unless you are going to spend at least 15 hours in the library, I would not suggest going there. It is always packed and you inevitably spend more time looking for a place to study than actually studying. If you would like to get a study room, then it is best to reserve one at least a week in advance.
xoxo,
Sally Seahawk
What’s the point in doing well on my finals if I am already doing terribly in the class? 
A very valuable lesson that I have learned throughout college is to do your best at the beginning so that you are not struggling at the end. If you are failing and there is nothing that you can do to swing a passing grade, you should contact your professor immediately. Procrastination can be our worst enemy, however, taking responsibility is a part of adulthood. You should study because it will have better effects long-term. Even if you have to retake the class, at least you will have had some experience and background with the information. Good luck with ending this semester strong. I am sure that everything will work out the way that it is meant to.
xoxo,
Sally Seahawk