This week’s message for first-year families comes from Intern C, who provides a perspective on students’ stress levels as finals approach, and some suggestions on how to relax.
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As the end of the semester nears, students often begin to feel overwhelmed with their upcoming schedules: choosing classes, staying on top of daily work, and preparing for finals. Skating from one activity to the next can seem efficient and productive, but over the course of my Wake experience, I have learned the importance of penciling in time to de-stress and relax.
Wake students are fortunate; the university provides a multiplicity of ways to take a break from the end of the semester stress. Below I share some of Wake students’ favorite ways to de-stress during the fall semester’s home stretch. Encourage your Wake student to take advantage of these opportunities.
Working out. The Miller Center fitness room is open 6:30am-11pm Mondays through Thursdays, 6:30am-7pm on Fridays, 11am-7pm on Saturdays and 1pm-10pm on Sundays. With such flexible hours, it is hard not to sneak over for a little time on the elliptical or treadmill before or after classes. Equipped with TV’s and magazines, it also serves as a good mental breakfrom the routine of school work.
Many students also try group fitness classes. Wake’s instructors offer a variety of classes from yoga and pilates to cycling, kickboxing, and bootcamp conditioning. There is something for every student, so encourage your Wake student to attend. Your student can bring a friend or meet new fellow fitness friends.
Celebratory holiday activities. As the winter season approaches, Wake also offers a variety of events to get students in the Holiday spirit. A few of my favorites include the Lovefeast and Lighting of the Quad. Attend the candlelight service that takes place on Sunday, December 2nd in Wait Chapel or head to the upper Quad (Hearn Plaza) December 4th to enjoy hot apple cider and music while watching the Quad light up for the holiday season.
Off-campus ventures. Does your student want a change of a scenery? A break from the dorms and the library? There are some excellent break and study spots near (but off) campus.
Luckily, Reynolda Village is only a short walk away! With a spa, the Village Tavern restaurant, and Simply Yummy, students are sure to find their niche tucked somewhere in the quaint village. With friends, I often venture to the Village Tavern restaurant to enjoy their heated, outdoor patio area for appetizers, or I spend time studying at Simply Yummy, which provides an array of lattes, desserts and lunch items.
In addition, consider encouraging your student to take advantage of Wake’s weekend shuttle service, which runs on Saturdays from 11am-9:30pm and Sundays from 12pm-6pm, excluding holidays. With a run to River Birch restaurant, Fresh Market, or Hanes Mall, students are sure to find and claim their new, favorite off-campus venue.
