Stay the course: Strategies for a successful finals season

The weeks after spring break bring a flurry of activity. It is important to focus on what remains to be done so students can reach their academic goals and finish the semester strong. These tips help cut through the noise so students can take practical steps to focus on life in and out of the classroom.

Prepare for finals with academic support tools

The Academic Achievement Center is a student's free academic support package. It is available to all enrolled students and provides individualized support that facilitates the learning process. There are several ways that students can benefit from the AAC, including academic coaching, content tutoring and on-demand resources.

Meet with an academic coach to set goals, identify challenges and create personalized action plans. Academic coaching can be a good fit for students who want to improve their study, test-taking or time management skills. Appointments are scheduled in Navigate and typically last 30 minutes.

Content tutoring is peer assistance in specific courses at K-State. Tutoring is available for over 80 courses across all subject areas. Peer tutors help students better understand the course content. Appointments are available by drop-in or by appointment (including virtual appointments)!

Available 24/7, academic success tools are independent resources to help students navigate academic life — anytime, anywhere. Tools can be adapted to individual needs and include resources for studying, finals preparation and more. Browse the full toolkit at k-state.edu/aac.

Students can also connect with their peers through Navigate's Study Buddy feature. The tool allows students to find classmates from specific course sections and schedule study sessions. The feature is available in the Navigate app or desktop platform. Learn more about Study Buddies at k-state.edu/navigate.

Build resilience and reduce stress by leaning into community

Students who stay connected with friends, classmates and loved ones may experience reduced stress and feel more confident about the weeks ahead. Building community can take time, so if students are struggling to meet others, on-campus opportunities may help facilitate the process.

• Group fitness classes at the Rec Center are free, fun and energizing. View the schedule at recservices.k-state.edu.
• If students live on campus, don't forget to check out upcoming events in the residence halls — they're convenient and welcoming places to meet other students.
• Offices like the Military Affiliated Resource Center, First-generation Student Center or Morris Family Multicultural Student Center are open to all students and provide space to meet others, connect with campus resources and unwind.
• Plan to attend Health and Well-being Week, April 20-24. Events are scheduled all week long with the goal of helping students, faculty and staff invest in their emotional and mental well-being while connecting with the K-State community. Check out the event line-up at k-state.edu/hpu.

— Submitted by Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs