Uplifting Campus Events: Nurturing Yourself During Finals Preparation

With just two weeks until dead week and three weeks until finals, the 2025-2026 academic year is nearing its end. With this, students are beginning to prepare and study for their final exams. This time of year is certainly not easy; every task feels like an uphill battle where a small falter could prove detrimental. Students are stressed, filled with anxieties about final grades and burned out as many give most or all of their time to their schoolwork. It is crucial to take care of oneself during these exhausting weeks and set aside time to rest and take mental breaks from the heavy loads. Campus has a slew of resources that are meant to offer aid in times like these, especially as finals grow closer. Let’s take a look at some of NDSU’s resources!

If you’re someone who enjoys dancing, more specifically Latin dance, join the Ritmo Latin Dance club on Tuesdays from 8-9 p.m. at the Bensen Bunker Fieldhouse for their weekly engagement in the art of dance. Featuring salsa, bachata and zouk, anyone is welcome, even if you haven’t had any previous experience. Let loose and take your mind off the responsibilities and anxieties ahead, even if just for a short while.

April 20-24 is National Library Week! To celebrate the finale of National Library Week, the NDSU library is handing out floats in the Student Lounge from 1-3 p.m. Friday, April 24. The Student Lounge is located on the lower floor of the library by the Math Emporium. This event also opens up an opportunity to check out the new lounge, which features a microwave, a hot coffee machine, multiple vending machines with snacks and diner seating. Treat yourself with a float for your hard work and potentially find yourself a new study space.

Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, the wellness center has a simple, relaxing swim event that they hold multiple days every week: sunrise swim and night swim. On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 a.m., start off your morning with a decompressing swim. The lights are dimmed and the underwater lighting is turned on to offer you a more pleasant aquatic experience. This activity sets a calming mood for the morning and readies your mind for the day ahead. And if you aren’t a morning person, don’t worry, they’ve got you covered: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 9-10:30 p.m., they offer a nightly version. The convenient timing and multiple opportunities make this a great choice for those needing to wind down for the night or blow off some steam before a late study session.

As the year wraps up, many will be celebrating their final accomplishments, including the visual arts and design students. They are showcasing their work at the 2026 Juried Undergraduate Exhibition in the Memorial Union Gallery. With a focus on contemporary art, craft and concept, you will get a look into the modern art scene and how NDSU students interpret it. The reception and opening of the exhibition will be on May 13 from 5-7 p.m. The artwork will be on display until September 5, so those remaining on campus over the summer will have plenty of chances to stop by for an indulgent viewing. If you are heading back home for the summer break, make sure to check out this striking exhibition. From personal experience as a touring student back in high school, NDSU’s art students have talents that are unmatched and dedication that is evident. You will not regret your visit. Plus, it can prove to be an enjoyable final event for you and your friends before everyone goes their separate ways for summer.

With just three weeks left, there is no doubt that anxieties are high. It is important to remember that true success comes from not only your educational accomplishments but also delicate attention to yourself. Finals week requires many sacrifices, but your mental and physical well-being should also be a top priority. Take breaks, get away from the schoolwork when you can and indulge yourself with some sweet treats or participation in seemingly mindless activities. You are almost to the finish line. NDSU and its community is here for you, so make sure you utilize the resources and events they provide!