To help students better manage demands of end-of-the-semester assignments, projects and tests, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is expanding study space hours and offering a series of stress-reducing events.
“We understand that students can feel a little crunched for time or pressured to do well on remaining assignments and exams at this point in the semester,” said Laurie Bellows, interim vice chancellor for student affairs. “To help students manage emotions and personal expectations, we offer healthy and positive programs and activities at the end of the term.”
One of the more popular activities is the Stress Free Zone organized by the University Health Center. The event includes free chair massages, coloring activities, stress relief toys, slime making and snacks.
Stress Free Zone activities are offered 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 24 in the Adele Coryell Hall Learning Commons in Love Library North; April 25 in the Crib in the Nebraska Union; and April 26 in the Nebraska East Union.
All Stress Free Zone events are free and open to students.
Other semester-end events and extended-hour study spaces are listed below.
Students unable to attend these events can also reduce stress and increase energy through breathing exercises, stretching or going for a 10-minute walk. These activities can also be energizing.
“Putting yourself in a healthier place physically and emotionally will help you be at your best,” Bellows said.
End-of-the-semester activities
OASIS Late Night Lounge — De-stress Fest, April 23-26, 5:30 p.m. OASIS Student Lounge, Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center: Free dinner followed by a fun, stress-reducing activity.
Art and Soul — April 25, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., First Nebraskans Room, Gaughan Multicultural Center: Art activity designed for self-care, mindfulness and reflection. No art experience or supplies needed.
Fuel Your Finals — April 25, 5 to 6 p.m., Atrium, Campus Recreation Center: Create make and take snacks that provide fuel for final exams.
Study at Sheldon — April 26, 5 to 8 p.m., Sheldon Museum of Art: Find inspiration by studying in Sheldon galleries, free snacks available.
Free Group Fitness Classes — April 28 to May 4, Campus Recreation: All group fitness classes during the final week of the semester are free to students and Campus Rec members. A full schedule is available online.
All Stressed Out — April 29 to May 3, Wick Alumni Center: Hosted by the Student Alumni Association, All Stressed Out offers a quite place for students to study and enjoy free food and drinks, and prizes. Sessions include Wi-fi access and late-night study hours. Prizes are available to all students with some handed out for engagement via social media. Hours are 6 p.m. to midnight, April 29; 8 a.m. to midnight, April 30 to May 2; and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3.
Extended study hours
Adele Coryell Hall Learning Commons — Open 24/7 through May 5. Learn more online.
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center — Open until midnight May 29 to May 3.
