Special exam-week study breaks have been a Wofford staple for years. The college has expanded those opportunities this year, with two weeks of events designed to help students take care of themselves during one of the busiest times of the year.
Students’ need for a pause in their rigorous academic schedules increases during exam season, and Wofford faculty and staff are there to lend a hand as they make their way through the busy final weeks.
“I find that students tend to be more anxious and stressed during the weeks leading up to exams,” says Lisa Lefebvre, director of employee wellness and medical services. “The anxiety is still there during exam week, but it’s intensified by the need to start studying, writing and finishing up classwork in the weeks prior.”
The expanded breaks are the result of a team effort by the Wellness Center, Sandor Teszler Library, Office of the Chaplain, Office of Residence Life, President’s Office, Provost’s Office, the Career Center, Office of Student Success and Campus Union. See the full schedule HERE.
This semester’s activities began on Monday, Dec. 4, and will continue through Thursday, Dec. 14. Activities include therapy dogs and bunnies, hot cocoa and crafts, and the popular late-night breakfast in Burwell Dining Hall. A late-night study hall also will be offered at Knowledge Perk, a coffeeshop in the Hub.
Lane McCracken ’27, an undeclared major from Laurens, South Carolina, welcomed the opportunity for a break during the dash toward exams.
“I have a super busy week, so I thought hanging out with therapy dogs for a while could really help alleviate that stress,” she says.
Every activity will have faculty and/or staff available for students to talk to, so each student in attendance knows that someone there is willing to listen and check in on them. Faculty and staff will be present at every activity, providing students with friendly support and ensuring each attendee feels acknowledged and cared for.
“I remember feeling very tired as a student during exam week, which also played into not physically feeling well. I remember just sitting for hours and hours, being isolated and studying,” says Beth Wallace ’82, vice president and dean of students. “We as staff cannot take your exam for you, but I’m confident we can lend an ear.”
Outside of exam season, the Wellness Center will continue to offer CREATE sessions on Wednesdays from 1-3 p.m. These sessions are designed to be midweek opportunities for students to relax and express themselves through art. Recent sessions have included making lanterns, tie-dye tote bags and Christmas ornaments.
Lefebvre also recommends that students proactively schedule both study time and relaxation time to make sure they keep a healthy balance.
She hopes the events during these two weeks will encourage students to fit break time into their days. Additionally, Lefebvre reminds students that the Terrier Helpline is always available.
“As part of the Wellness Center’s mission, we want to give them healthy stress relief,” Lefebvre says. “This is the part of the year where there is the biggest need, and we want to give students the opportunity to take a breath.”