SOU’WESTER WRITERS GIVE THEIR TIPS FOR FINALS WEEK
Here are some tips that have helped me:
1. Eat the Frog First
Complete the difficult, frustrating, or tedious tasks-also known as frogs-before the ones you’d rather do.
2. Might as Well
Start off by telling yourself you want to review one slide, page, or vocab. Term. Then, think “I might as well” to expand your study. Like, “I might as well look at the next slide while I’m here.”
3. Try the Pomodoro Technique
Have a timer to buzz you after 25-50 minutes, then take a 5-15 minute break. Ratio depends on how much concertation is required for each loop of study.
4. Turn your Phone Off
This one is harder. Turn it off, leave it in another room, or make use of modes that put the screen to grayscale with distracting apps disabled.
5. Get a Full Nights Rest
Sleep loss can affect memory recall, the ability to think critically, and attention. If it compounds over time, it can elevate anxiety and irritability.
Zac Monnier Staff Writer
Here are some of my study tips!
1. Give yourself a set amount of time to study and a set time to take a break.
2. Make flash cards in topics that you don’t understand or are hard to remember.
3. Make practice quizzes based on past test/quiz questions.
Bristol Cox Staff Writer
I like to prioritize self-care when it comes to studying and test day.
1. Always make time for breaks. We were not made to just take tests. Decompress by playing a game, spending time with friends or family, or cuddle with a pet for 15 minutes.
2. Sleep. It is better to sleep a full 8 hours after doing a little studying than cramming the night before and only getting 4 hours of rest.
3. If you need medication, make sure you remember to take it. As someone with ADD, I know how hard it is to take a final after forgetting to take your meds.
4. Treat yourself afterwards. No matter how you think you did on a test, get some dessert or your favorite meal when the test is over.
Colby Hernandez Media Editor
IN THIS ISSUE
LEARNING THE TRUE COLORS OF PLANTS
PAGE 2
Biology students turn plants into vibrant fabric dyes.
MS. OMEGA PSI PHI AND MR. RHOMEO PAGEANTS
PAGE 3
Pictures from the pageants.
NAVIGATING FINALS WEEK WITH A CLEAR HEAD
PAGE 4
Mental health tips to keep a clear head this week.
REMINDERS:
• The last day of class is Wednesday, the 4th
• Finals are on the 5th, 6th, 9th, and 10th
• The first day of the spring term is Wednesday, January 8th
IMAGE SERIES
BIOLOGY STUDENTS TURN PLANTS INTO COLORS
Colby Hernandez Media Editor
Dr. Stephanie Harvey has an online class called Use and Abuse of Plants. Though the lab exercises can be done at home, many students choose to do them with Dr. Harvey on campus. “The class is actually online,” Dr. Harvey told me, “but some of the labs we do face to face because I have more toys, or it’s safer which is actually an issue.” On November 12th, Kylie Lawhorn, Brooke Wiesner, and Sydney McCord opted to do the lab on plant dyes in person. The three learned about five different dyes derived from plants; Brazilwood, turmeric, q’olle flower, indigo, and onion skins. In order, these dyes stain pink to red, yellow, gold, blue, and yellow. After Dr. Harvey demonstrated, the students dyed scraps of silk to determine which colors they liked. After this, they dyed white silk scarves in their chosen color with tie-dye patterns.
These scraps are freshly dyed. From left to right, q’olle flower, soaked in brazilwood, dipped in brazilwood, and tumeric.
Left to right: Kylie Lawhorn (Senior, Biology), Sydney McCord (Senior, Biology), Brooke Wiesner (Junior, psychology), and Dr. Stephanie Harvey.
Previously dyed scraps.
Brooke’s scarf, dyed with brazilwood.
Sydney’s scarf, dyed with tumeric.
Kylie’s scarf, dyed with brazilwood.
Dr. Harvey helps Brooke to fold her scarf.
Brooke rinsing off her scarf. Dr. Harvey shows off a scarf dyed with indigo.
Sydney gets a bit of tumeric to dye her scarf.
MS. OMEGA PSI PHI AND MR. RHOMEO
PAGEANTS
Tyeshia Walker Staff Writer IMAGE SERIES
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS: NAVIGATING FINALS WITH A CLEAR MIND
Abigail Williamson Contributor
This article contains quotes by GSW students who wish to remain anonymous.
As the semester draws to a close, many college students find themselves facing the overwhelming challenge of final exams. While this period is crucial for academic success, it is also a time when mental health issues can peak.
Research indicates that stress levels among students significantly increases during finals, often leading to anxiety, depression, and burnout. You are not alone. According to a study by the American College Health Association, nearly 45% of college students reported feeling more than average stress, and 30% felt that stress negatively affected their academic performance.
“Finals are stressful, personally, I procrastinate and let it all build up and then it hits all at once tanking mental health,” said one GSW student.
Understanding the connection between mental health and academic stress is the first step in making a change in its effects. Here are some strategies, suggested by students, to help maintain mental well-being during these challenging times:
1. Develop a Study Schedule: Create a realistic and balanced study plan can help manage time effectively and reduce last-minute cramming. Allocate specific times for studying, breaks, and productive activities to maintain a healthy balance.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that can be easily integrated into your routine. Lucky for us at Georgia Southwestern, we offer counseling and mental health activities through CARE.
3. Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity is known to boost mood and energy levels. Even a short walk or a quick workout can release endorphins that help lower stress. Many students find that exercise is a great way to take a break from studying and clear their minds.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating nutritious meals can have a significant impact on your mental health. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar and opt for balanced meals that provide sustained energy throughout the day.
5. Seek Social Support: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. Sometimes, just talking about your worries can lighten the load.
“Planning things out helps a lot to have that structure and making sure you have the time to relax and take for yourself,” said another GSW student.
During finals, it’s also essential to recognize when professional help might be needed. We offer counseling services that can provide support and resources if you are experiencing severe stress or mental health issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you find yourself struggling.
“I was scared to reach out for help, yes. Having a counselor just helps having someone to talk to about everything,” said a third GSW student. “The advice that is given is extremely helpful and they put new insights and ideas in your head.”
Remember, it’s normal to feel stress during finals, but taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. By adopting healthy habits and seeking support, you can navigate this challenging period with resilience and clarity. You’re not alone in this journey; many students have faced and overcome these same challenges.
“Knowing I’m not alone and have people to talk to is extremely helpful. Just the fact of knowing you’re not alone changes something in your mind,” a fourth GSW student stated. “Knowing you’ll always have someone in your corner to help you just creates a sense of comfort and stability in a sense.”
While finals can be a stressful time, they don’t have to take a toll on your mental health. By implementing these strategies and seeking support when needed, you can maintain a healthy mind and perform your best academically.
MEET OUR WRITERS
Amari Rudison Editor
arudison@radar.gsw.edu
Colby Hernandez Media Editor
chernan4@radar.gsw.edu
Dr. Elizabeth Shiller Faculty Advisor elizabeth.shiller@gsw.edu
Zac Monnier Staff Writer
zmonnier@radar.gsw.edu
Tyeshia Walker Staff Writer
twalke36@radar.gsw.edu
Dylan Tracy Staff
Writer
dtracy1@radar.gsw.edu
Bristol Cox Staff Writer
bcox5@radar.gsw.edu
Have a story idea or news tip? Let us know! souwester@gsw.edu
