Phoenix Five: Sunday look at the ahead for exam week

Vice President for Student Life Jon Dooley offers this weekly message to help students stay informed and prepare for the week ahead.

Congrats to the Elon softball team, which used a two-game sweep of conference tournament host Campbell to earn an automatic qualifying bid to the NCAA softball tournament. The team joins women’s tennis and men’s golf in earning CAA conference championships this spring!

The last day of class is today – we’re entering the final stretch of the semester. Between final exams, moving out, and graduation celebrations, the next two weeks will be busy.

Here are five quick tips for exam prep:

  1. Make a Plan – Create a study schedule that breaks material down into a manageable strategy – spread out your review sessions instead of cramming the night before (or the day of!).
  2. Prioritize Your Exam Prep – Focus additional attention on the exams that are worth the most for your final grades and those you feel least prepared for.
  3. Use Active Study Techniques – Don’t just reread notes – quiz yourself, teach the material to someone else, or use flashcards and practice problems to reinforce your learning.
  4. Take Breaks and Get Sleep – Consider using a 50/10 rule: study for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break; avoid all-nighters – your brain works better with proper rest.
  5. Use Your Resources Now – Exams start in just a few days, so reach out now if you’re still unsure about anything; make the most of faculty office hours and Reading Day, and don’t wait until the last minute.

And the rest of this week’s Phoenix Five includes a few pre-finals stress-relievers and information to help you plan ahead for moving out at the end of the year.

Free Ice Cream & Swag with SPDC

Monday, May 12, 1-4 p.m., Student Professional Development Center, Moseley Center

Join the SPDC for free ice cream and swag while learning about the professional development resources that can help with securing internships, jobs and more. Visit PhoenixCONNECT for more information.

Paws and Relax

Monday, May 12, 3-5 p.m., Belk Library 

Take a break from your books and unwind and destress with therapy dogs at the Belk Library! Whether you need a break or just puppy cuddles, Paws & Relax is a cozy way to pause before finals. Stop by Belk 113 for puppy love. Follow @elonbelk on Instagram for more information.

Cram Jam

Tuesday, May 13, 8 p.m., Moseley First Floor & Lakeside Dining Hall

Take a break from Reading Day studying and join SUB for Cram Jam while we celebrate all the emotions of INSIDE OUT! There will be food, games, giveaways, crafts, and live band karaoke. Visit PhoenixCONNECT for more information.

Housing Move-Out Reminders

Make your move-out process stress-free by checking the steps for check-out information. Visit the Residence Life website for a full guide and checklist. Here are some key reminders:

  • Residence halls close Tuesday, May 20, at 10 a.m.
  • University-owned apartments and houses close Saturday, May 31, at 10 a.m.
    Ask your RA, apartment manager, or house manager for further checkout instructions.

Don’t Trash It!

Don’t Trash It! is Elon University’s end-of-year move-out program that encourages students, faculty and staff to donate items at various donation stations throughout campus, rather than putting reusable items in the trash. For a list of what can be collected and drop-off locations on and off campus, visit @elonfacilitiesmanagement on Instagram. Sign up online to help volunteer at the collection stations.

Have a great week and good luck on your final exams. Later this afternoon, Jon Dooley, vice president for Student Life, will be on Young Commons (or Moseley first floor, if it’s raining) for a “Last Day of Class” pop-up with Elon Dining – stop by if you get a chance!