Best Wishes for Productive End of Semester

Dear Class of 2018,

It is 10:30 P.M. on Monday night. It is raining outside and buzzing with excitement in the Exley Science Center Lobby where I am taking in the vibe of this time of the school year. Several students dressed in festive colorful costumes, capes, and masks just skipped through the lobby joyfully tossing candy and spreading the joy. The Office of Residential Life has set up a table of free coffee and snacks.

Whether you are alone in your room or in one of the bustling common spaces like the one I am in, you are likely writing a paper or studying for one or more exams at this time. As your dean, I wish you all the best and I want to share a few tips to make it through this hectic time of year.

  1. Pace yourself

If you have several papers and/or exams ahead, it is unrealistic and unwise to hold multiple consecutive “ALL NIGHTERS.”

  1. Eat healthy snacks

Moderate your intake of caffeinated beverages and sweets. Opt instead for apples, bananas, power bars, and nuts.

  1. Move your body

Pay attention to the length of time you spend in a particular location. Move every couple of hours, stand up, walk around, stretch, and maybe even change your location.

  1. Practice stress management.

Pickup a stress ball or a jar of Play-Doh from one of the Study Break tables on campus or the WesWell Office.

Remember – you are surrounded by resources. If you need to talk to someone, don’t hesitate to drop-in to see me, your Class Dean.

Very truly yours,

Dean Thornton