Dear Rams:

As finals quickly approach, I wanted to share five tips to help you finish the semester strong:

• Use a study buddy.
  Study with a friend or small group to quiz each other, work on study guides, and test your knowledge.
• Plan don’t cram.
  Prep in advance and get plenty of sleep – research shows that pulling an all-nighter for an exam can diminish recall and performance during test-taking.
• Fuel ambition with nutrition.
  Eat well, drink plenty of water, and if you are experiencing food insecurity, don’t forget about the The Rams Against Hunger Program  and the food pantry located in the General Services Building (1251 Mason Street).
• Take a break.
  A little exercise to help manage stress, some time outside, or a few minutes of down time can help you recharge and reduce stress.
• Lean on your Ram Fam.
  Reach out to your network of faculty, advisors, and friends for support and seek out CSU student resources at studentsupport.colostate.edu if you feel stressed or anxious – it’s a good thing to ask for help.

You’ve come a long way this semester and have overcome many challenges to make it this far.  Finals week and the end of the semester is cause for celebration and it can also be a stressful, exhausting, and challenging time. I encourage you to remember your successes and accomplishments this semester. Be mindful, keep your focus, and give it all you’ve got.

For those of you graduating, congratulations! I look forward to celebrating you at commencement next week with your instructors and loved ones.

For those of you returning this spring, I wish you a wonderful Winter Break, and I look forward to welcoming you back in January!

Sincerely,

Blanche Hughes, PhD
Vice President for Student Affairs