Pencils, notebooks, textbooks, water? Check. Jenga? Double check!
(Edmonton) On the last day of classes, students are shifting gears to prepare for upcoming exams, studying in groups. The Fred Pheasey Engineering Commons is quickly filling up with the aroma of coffee and cookies, while tables are covered in textbooks, and board games.
"We were looking for something to cool down after the lectures," said Josh Nachtigal, a third-year chemical engineering student who was going reviewing study his notes after playing a round of Jenga-probably the most "engineering" game of all-with his friends.
"Last fall, I had five exams in four days. I was drained of energy because I didn't take any breaks," he added. This term, Nachtigal partakes in the Take a Break initiative launched earlier this year by the Faculty of Engineering Wellness Team, to unwind and make fun activities a fixture in his busy schedule.
"It's so important to include self-care in your study routine," says Kimberly Stauffer, the faculty wellness facilitator who runs the events. As many students are hitting the books during the next couple of weeks, sticking to a schedule and rewarding themselves with quality sleep, relaxation, and socialization are keys in setting themselves up for success. Little things like an extra hour of shut-eye, taking the stairs instead of elevators, making a healthy snack, or chatting with a friend on the phone can have a big impact.
"Investing in self-care is investing in academics," added Stauffer.
On approaching the exam season with the right mindset, Stauffer says: "We need realistic expectations. We should also try to focus on accomplishing small manageable steps, and reinforce ourselves along the way."
Just like Nachtigal, Farhad Azam, a fourth-year materials engineering student, needed to put studying on hold and break for a quick tennis match on Wii.
"It's a refreshment for the mind," he said.
"It's new that we have an opportunity to play games on campus," he added.
The next Take a Break with the Faculty of Engineering session is taking place on December 17, on the 8th floor of the Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering.