UNI is one week away from finals. After coming back from Thanksgiving break, students and faculty have three weeks to wrap up their semester. During finals week, some students have tests, some have presentations or essays. Whatever it may be, there is a short amount of time to complete everything for all classes. If students have late or incomplete assignments, now is the time to turn them in. It’s crucial during this time that students take care of themselves.
Sara Forret, a class of ’26 Social Work major, said “I try to get as much work done beforehand so that I can focus on big projects or studying.”
The smaller assignments are easier to complete. Those can typically be completed and turned in within 15 to 30 minutes.
“If I’m super stressed or overwhelmed, I try to take breaks when I need them, and do crafts or color to help relax.” said Forret.
Faith Leed, class of ’26 Interactive Digital Studies major said, “It’s hard to balance everything, it feels like there’s so much to do all of the time.”
Leed noted, “by the time finals comes around, you don’t really feel like a person anyways, so just push through it.”
To take breaks from school work, Leed emphasizes getting fresh air. “I like to take walks if the weather is nice.”
Each student has a different way of dealing with the dreadful approach of final deadlines. Some students prefer to slowly work on assignments, and some students keep ablaze through the last few weeks. Lily Munnik, a class of ’26 Textiles and Apparels major said, “I am so used to going through the motions that it’s normal to not take a break until I go to bed.”
Munnik notes, “I alternate between assignments, I personally have to just keep going until it’s done.”
There’s plenty for students to do on campus to help deal with the stress of finals week. Coloring, reading or even playing video games. UNI Student Wellness Services hosts Wellness Days as we round the corner on finals, which is a chance for students to participate in miscellaneous free activities. From “Cat Days” to “DIY Candles,” there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Student Health Clinic on campus offers walk-in appointments. They are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the SHC located on 1600 W 23rd St. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these services, as they are a part of tuition. In 2023, the student annual report released by the SHC noted that 3,913 students used counseling services over their active months. The SHC offers five free sessions per school year for students in need.
