Finals season can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to manage stress and stay productive. In this interview, Elizabeth shares her personal experiences and techniques for balancing study, breaks, and well-being. Her insights offer valuable advice for students navigating the challenges of finals.

Transcript of the interview:

Interviewer (I):

Hi Elizabeth, thank you for joining me today to talk about finals preparation and strategies for managing stress during this busy time. Let’s dive right into it—what do you think are the biggest challenges students face when preparing for finals?

Interviewee (E):

Thanks for having me! I think one of the biggest challenges is staying organized and motivated. There’s always so much to do, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or procrastinate.

I:

That makes a lot of sense. Staying organized can be tough when there’s so much pressure. Can you share any specific techniques or methods you use to stay on top of your studies during finals?

E:

Absolutely! I always create a detailed schedule for myself. I break down what I need to study by day and prioritize the hardest subjects first. I also use the Pomodoro technique—it’s a game-changer. Working in focused intervals with breaks really helps me stay productive without burning out.

I:

The Pomodoro technique sounds like a great way to stay focused. Speaking of breaks, do you think they’re important for maintaining productivity and mental health? What kind of breaks do you take?

E:

Breaks are essential! I usually take a quick walk outside or stretch for a few minutes. Sometimes I’ll make a cup of tea or listen to calming music. It helps clear my mind and recharge before diving back into studying.

I:

That sounds refreshing. You mentioned taking walks outside—how important do you think nature is during finals? Does it play a role in your stress management?

E:

Nature is a huge part of how I manage stress. There’s something so calming about being surrounded by greenery. I’ll often go to a nearby park to study or just take a walk between study sessions. It really helps me refocus and feel less overwhelmed.

I:

That’s amazing. You’ve touched on organization, breaks, and connecting with nature. Let’s talk about social support. Do you think having a strong support system, like friends or family, makes a difference during finals?

E:

Oh, definitely. Studying with friends or even just talking about the stress with someone who understands is really helpful. My family also supports me by making sure I eat well and encouraging me to take breaks. Knowing you’re not alone in the struggle is really comforting.

I:

That’s a great point. Finals can be such a solitary experience, but having people around can really help. Lastly, what advice would you give to someone feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start with their finals preparation?

E:

I’d say, start small. Just pick one subject or task and focus on that—don’t try to tackle everything at once. Create a plan, stick to it, and don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way. You’ll get through it!

I:

That’s fantastic advice. Thank you so much for sharing your insights and tips. I’m sure a lot of students will find this really helpful. Best of luck with your own finals!

E:

Thank you! I hope this helps, and good luck to everyone preparing for finals!