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AN INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SERVING THE GW COMMUNITY SINCE 1904

The GW Hatchet

Serving the GW Community since 1904

The GW Hatchet

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Officials name senior vice president, chief of staff
By Fiona Riley, Assistant News Editor • March 26, 2024

WEB EXTRA: Counseling center offers advice for finals week

In an effort to help alleviate finals week tensions, the University Counseling Center is providing students with stress relief and exam-taking tips.

The UCC began its four-part Academic Success Series in early November, and the final event took place last Wednesday. The drop-in sessions allowed students to discuss their concerns about the topics and learn skills for improved strategies.

Specific areas of discussion focused around time management techniques, minimizing procrastination, improved note taking skills and effective strategies for test taking.

A few of the study tips include using as many study strategies as possible-like note cards, outlines and group study sessions-listening to oral directions and building relationships with teaching assistants and professors.

The time management session was probably the most helpful, said sophomore Mike Kandel, who has attended all four sessions in the series. “I absolutely recommend the sessions. Not only to struggling students but to everyone,” Kandel said.

The UCC established their Academic Success Series as a combined response to students who are stressed about finals, and as a preventative measure to help students become relaxed and prepared. UCC Senior Associate Director John Dages said the Counseling Center is extremely busy right before midterm and final exam periods.

Though many students utilize the UCC’s service, Dages said the center – located on 2033 K Street – is expanding its outreach activities to make services even more accessible to students.

This Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the UCC will host “Exam Stress: Cramping your Style?” in Kogan Plaza. Counseling Center psychologists will be on hand to answer specific questions and there will also be quick-tips and handouts available for all students passing through.

Dages said he is enthusiastic about the event and added that the UCC is not just around to offer advice on finals, but that the UCC wants to help students care about themselves and balance their lives.

Many students agree that finding this balance is extremely important, especially around finals. “I think it’s important to take short breaks, go for a walk, or just get fresh air to clear your head and refocus,” said junior Andrew Gaman.

Other students, like freshman Melanie Kimmelman said exercise is a great stress reliever. “I’ve made a point to take time everyday to go to the gym,” Kimmelman said.

The UCC also provides programming like Career Decisions Workshops, a Dissertation Support Group for graduate students and Peer Tutoring Service.

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