It’s that time again.

It’s that time again. Finals. That one small word strikes fear in the hearts of college students all around this great nation. However, there is no need for fear! You still have three weeks to prepare and conquer those frightening finals. Before I begin I feel the need to clarify that if you don’t know your professors’ names, can’t tell me where your classes are, and don’t know whether Dr. Smith is a man or woman, I am not writing to you. You have no hope. For those of you who actually know what classes you are in this semester, you still have a chance to greatly improve your grade. Here are a few tips that will help you not only survive but also thrive during finals week:

1. Start studying now. I know that sounds crazy. We are still over three weeks out. Think about it though. If you start studying a little bit now, by the time finals arrive, you will know the material pretty well. Just a little more studying right before and you will be studying. This will keep you from the typical cram session in the library with hundreds of other Auburn students. This might even allow you to get some sleep during finals week.

2. Don’t assume you will figure out the information between now and finals. If you don’t understand something, go to your professor today! That is what they are there for. I know they can be intimidating and seem unhelpful, but you will never truly know until you put the effort in to go see them.

3. Figure out the exact grade you need on each exam to reach the grade you desire in that course. If you have an A in one course, but a D in another class, you obviously need to spend more time studying for the second final. Of course, make sure you study enough to maintain the A. However, much more time must be dedicated to the course you aren’t excelling in.

4. Remain calm. Finals are not the death of you. No matter what you may think. You will survive. Have confidence in yourself and your ability to succeed.

So get to work! It won’t be easy, but it’s not too late to make this semester’s finals the best yet. Good luck!