As students at the George Washington University are preparing for final exams and projects, GW Today compiled a list of some of those helpful tips and resources, as suggested by the Division for Student Affairs, for managing stress, utilizing academic resources and navigating the home stretch of the fall semester.
ACADEMIC RESOURCES
Students can utilize the following resources to help with end of the semester tasks lists such as writing papers, catching up on unread assignments, finishing final projects and studying for exams.
- Academic Commons. This centralized navigation system offers tutoring and course reviews for undergraduate students throughout the final exam period, including help finding available study spaces.
- Office for Student Success. This office oversees the implementation of academic processes and policies, special programs and support services to ensure students have the resources they need to thrive at GW and during final exam period.
- Students feeling overwhelmed by deadlines, can view two-to-three-minute videos made by GW students with tips for time management.
- Writing Center. A division of the University Writing Program, this center offers free, peer-based support to students finishing up final papers. Clients participate in one-on-one sessions with student consultants on their projects at all stages of the writing process.
- All library services, including the Ask Us Desk, assistance locating resources and contactless book pick up or delivery, are available for students.
- Disability Support Services (DSS). Students who need to request certain accommodations can visit DSS, which works collaboratively with the GW community to foster a climate of universal academic excellence while promoting disability culture.
EVENTS AND ENGAGEMENT
Open to all GW students, Midnight Breakfast is a GW tradition and marquee event of the fall semester finals period that invites students to take a break from preparing for final exams, reconnect with friends, enjoy some free food and participate in a variety of engaging activities. This year’s Midnight Breakfast takes place at 9 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 12 in the University Student Center.
This year’s theme is “Midnight Breakfast: Sweet Dreams,” as the USC will be transformed into a “candy dreamland” thanks to the help of a variety of local D.C. vendors such as Ted’s Bulletin, Insomnia Cookies, Yerba Mate, Kilwins and more.
GW Program Board has teamed with DSA to provide students the opportunity to build their own plush hippo study buddy to keep them company during their exam preparations. GW Esports will also offer students a chance to unwind with some video games at Midnight Breakfast.
In addition, the Final Lap is designed to support student wellbeing prior to and during final exams. These 16 events running from Dec. 1 to Dec. 16 range from walking to Roosevelt Island and Rock Creek Park to free chair massages and breakfast breaks. On Dec. 1, the Mount Vernon Campus Quad will feature the annual lighting of the Vern Lights, plus s’mores, hot cocoa, stickers, music, crafts, giveaways and more.
Students are also encouraged to check out GW Engage, a student portal where clubs, organizations and offices post events for students to attend. Student clubs and organizations will be sponsoring a lot of individual events throughout the month.
MINDFULNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are providing resources for mindfulness and mental health. CAPS counselors are also available to provide a safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment for students to discuss concerns. No appointments are needed. Students can call 202-994-5300 to get connected with a clinician.
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Taking time to focus on your physical well-being helps you with your mental well-being. Check out these walking/running routes that start and end at the Charles E. Smith Center. For those who can't make it to one of Lerner Health and Wellness Center’s free group fitness classes, check out their video inventory of fitness classes that you can do yourself at your own pace right in your residence hall room or apartment.
