Stress-busting and extended support: UM-Flint transforming finals week

The familiar scent of late-night coffee and the fast-paced rustle of turning pages are sure signs that final exams are fast approaching at the University of Michigan-Flint. As students gear up for the end-of-semester tests of knowledge, campus administrators work to make the traditionally stressful period a little less so.

With that in mind, the university has planned a series of events and extended operating hours for various campus facilities to help students navigate the challenges of final exams.

The festivities start with the beloved Paws for Stress Relief event, 12:30-2 p.m., Dec. 3, as the Mid-Michigan Therapy Dogs will wag their tails throughout Frances Willson Thompson Library. The therapy dogs will transform the normally scholarly space into a haven of furry comfort, offering students, faculty and staff a moment of canine-induced calm.

Another highlight will be the annual Late Night Breakfast, hosted by UM-Flint Housing and Residential Life. The event will take place from 7 to 9 p.m., Dec. 5, on the University Center's third floor. Students will be able to refuel with a hearty meal featuring many breakfast favorites as well as enjoy karaoke and even receive a relaxing massage. Students are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas to add to the laid-back atmosphere. 

As the clock strikes 9 p.m., the library will transition into a hub of nocturnal activity as Student Government hosts Late Night in the Library. The event will feature various engaging activities, including bingo and scavenger hunts while maintaining quiet zones for those seeking focused study time.

The Campus Activities Board will host an Exam Care Kits event from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Dec. 9, in the student loft. Students can assemble their own exam care kits, including stress-relief items, snacks and study aids, while discussing ways to improve student engagement on campus. 

Recognizing the diverse needs of its students, the university will have extended library hours throughout the week, keeping its doors open until midnight on several days during final exams.

The library schedule for that period includes:

• 9 a.m. to midnight, Thursday, Dec. 12.
• 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13.
• 2-8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15.
• 9 a.m. to midnight, Monday, Dec. 16.
• 9 a.m. to midnight, Tuesday, Dec. 17.

The library will be closed Saturday, Dec. 14.

The Black Student Union and Intercultural Center will host a game night, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Dec. 12 in the ICC on the first floor UCEN. This event will offer students a chance to take a break from exams and socialize with friends while playing board games, video games and group games. The ICC's Fuel for Finals event will provide food and games, and students are welcome to bring their board or video games to share.

In addition to these events and programs, the university wants to remind students about the mental health and academic support services available to them.

To address the mental health challenges often associated with finals, the university's Counseling and Psychological Services wants to remind students that it offers free mental health services to currently enrolled students. Students are encouraged to take regular mental health breaks during this time.

The Student Success Center is also ramping up its support, providing academic advising, tutoring and supplemental instruction. For students who need additional support, Disability & Accessibility Support Services has comprehensive support and accommodations for students with disabilities. Students can stop by the DASS office on the UCEN second floor to explore options and access resources to enhance their academic journey.

To learn more about these and other university events, visit events.umflint.edu.