As the holidays approach, students eagerly anticipate the upcoming winter break, but first, must conquer the dreaded week known as finals week. Despite the holiday cheer on the horizon, the challenges of exams and assessments stand between us and the Christmas festivities with family.
Luckily, Lewis offers a wide variety of spaces in and out of residence halls, catering to both residents and commuters. These areas not only provide opportunities for engaging activities outside of class, but also offer a secure and serene atmosphere for focused studying. With the staff offering students to even be able to reserve various study rooms within the Learning Resource Center (LRC) and Brother James Gaffney Student Center.
The Courtyard Cafe, while occasionally lively with food orders from breakfast through dinner, provides a warm and vibrant atmosphere. Even with the occasional noise, the space is enhanced by background music, the convenience of coffee availability, and the seamless food ordering system through the Everyday app for quick and efficient pickup. The perfect study session vibes you need to be productive.
The campus library, with its dedicated staff, serves as an excellent alternative study space and hosts various activities to give students a break. The “Super Study in the Library” event spans from Dec. 4 to the end of finals week on Dec. 15 featuring free puzzles, interactive games, opportunities for crafting antique home items and a fan-favorite — interaction with the service dog, Jet.
Quin Zilch, a freshman Business Administration major, particularly appreciates the LRC. “It’s close to Sheil Hall and is a perfect way for me to lock in and get some serious work done. It’s refreshing, taking me out of my room, and the events are both peaceful and meditative. I especially benefit from the writing center, aiding me with my papers,” says Zilch.
The writing center, located in the LRC, offers in-person and online peer writing, mentoring and offers assistance in utilizing different formats, revising papers and starting a paper.
There are people on campus ready to help with your studies and mental well-being. Along with the Writing Center, Health Services and the Student Wellness Center are available. They can assist with both minor physical illnesses and connect you with mental health professionals who are here for each student, especially during stressful weeks such as finals week.
As this final week approaches, each residence hall enforces quiet hour rules, ensuring a conducive environment for students to focus on their studies. Regardless of the emphasis on silent study hours, many individuals prefer to stay within their dorms to work on final assignments.
Although the week of finals is stressful, we have all of these amazing resources Lewis provides to aid us. It is what you do with the resources that can help you get through it. And there is light at the end of the tunnel with the holidays and winter break just around the corner.
Photo Credits: Katherine Groppe
