Ducks @ Oregon - University of Oregon

Finals Week at the Library

Leah C.

December 12, 2009 - 9:30 PM

Finals week is when I don't sleep. Late night studies at the library, and energy drinks one after another, finals week seems to consume everyone's lives on campus. My stress level and tolerance has definitely been on edge as I powered out two art projects, a paper, as well as studying for two finals. I have been stretched to the limit, and this year seems to be the toughest week I've ever had. Last Wednesday I spent almost 12 hours at the Library working on a paper for geology, leaving the doors at 5am. What is so great about working or studying in the Knight Library at the University of Oregon is the motivation you get from other students around you. Its dead quiet especially on the second floor which allows for maximum concentration. I definitely procrastinate less when I'm at the library. When I see other students working hard, I usually feel guilty when I stray off and somehow end up on Facebook. I also don't get tempted to study in bed, which often turns into a short nap with notes under my pillow.

The Knight Library at the University of Oregon is open 24 hours during finals week. I really love this service, because it provides students with resources and safety. After the library closes to the public, security guards roam the aisles and into study rooms checking for student ID's. Students also have the opportunity to reserve study rooms if there is a need for more privacy. If you're lucky enough you could even find an empty study room, as long as it is not listed on the reserved list. I rarely went to the library during the past two years at the University of Oregon. My last trip was probably the 6th time I had studied there. The last two years, I did not find the need to leave the comforts of my own room, but junior year seems a bit different. I have more work than usual and the need for a quiet and large place while other students work, definitely helps me keep on track. I find myself finishing my work a lot faster, because I am less distracted and will definitely be visiting the library more often next term.