The time is upon us. Red Bull cans rattle through the streets, a sense of desperation hums throughout our small town, and the faint crying of college students can be heard, carried by the frigid breeze. Brace yourselves, my dear readers, for the time has come. It’s Finals Week. This apocalyptic time means desperate measures must be taken in order to survive. You must be prepared for whatever is thrown your way, roll with the punches, and overcome these challenges; one of the best ways to prepare is to create a bug out bag. So, dust off those backpacks and dry those eyes. Here’s a short list of the basics you’ll need in order to survive the chaos that is finals.
- Textbooks. This is self-explanatory. You need your textbooks (as well as your notes) in order to study for your finals. They could also double as a pillow; a handy fact when you fall asleep in the library. Again.
- Pencil/pen/quill. Use whatever writing utensil at your disposal. Rewrite your notes, just to make sure that the information is engraved into your brain. Don’t worry if your fingers begin to cramp and you develop carpal tunnel. That’s completely normal.
- Tissues. Hey, this is a judge-free zone. We won’t tell anyone if you cry (sob) a little bit. Finals are stressful and emotions run high. Odds are that you’re not the only one. Study sessions usually turn into therapy sessions, so pack extra tissues. Just in case.
- Some sort of edible substance. Whether it be protein bars, beef jerky, or chocolate, you need something that’ll give you energy to keep studying and offer some type of nutrients. Just make sure you pack some Flintstones multivitamins.
- Cash. You know the old saying “flattery will get you everywhere?” In college, it’s bribery that gets you everywhere. And I’m sure your professor would prefer some extra cash. Okay, I’m morally obligated to tell you not to do that; it’s a bad idea (and it’s against UNG policies). In reality, you need that cash to buy as much Ben & Jerrys as you possibly can. In fact, I’m pretty sure Walmart has them on sale.
- Deodorant. Let’s be honest, you’re going to sweat a lot. Finals are stressful, and stress makes you sweat. It’s basic biology (that’ll be probably on the biology final. You’re welcome). Have that extra deodorant to fight your natural “musk.”
- Water. Put the coffee and energy drinks down. Consider this is your intervention. Your poor heart is probably working overtime, and it needs a break. Also, drinking water is vital for your health. Don’t believe me? First off, rude, but that’s okay. I understand you’re stressed. Anyway, click here and here for more reasons to drink water.
- Movies. Pack your favorite movie, and set aside time to watch it. You deserve a break, so treat yourself to your favorite. I would recommend the award-winning masterpiece that is the Bee Movie, a modern-day classic. Be sure to save some of your tissues; it pulls at the heartstrings.
- Music. After you finish watching your favorite movie, set aside more time to listen to music. Listen to whatever calms your mind, takes you to your happy place. Anything will do if it takes your mind off your finals, even if it is just for a few minutes. I highly recommend this song and this song. They personally help me through tough times.
- Blanket. A Snuggie is more preferred. You’ve likely been studying for hours on end, an IV of caffeine hooked into your veins. There’s no telling when you’ll crash, so it’s best to be prepared at all times. Try to maintain a healthy sleep schedule because if you pull an all-nighter, it can be more damaging than helpful.
That’s it! It’s all up to you now. But don’t worry, we know you’ve got it. And be sure to check out our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram when it’s midnight, and you’re too tired to study.
