As prep week settles in at Iowa State, students are balancing their academic load with spring weather and summer break up ahead.
For Isabella DiNovo, a freshman majoring in family and consumer sciences education and studies, the week feels manageable.
“As an education major, I don’t have that heavy of a load, but I do have to schedule out some small, wrap-up assignments, but I’m feeling pretty good about it,” DiNovo said.
DiNovo is feeling optimistic about finals. Her prep week includes not only studying and finishing assignments but also enjoying the warmer weather.
“Besides my assignments and studying, I’ve been tanning and spending time with my friends and going on little adventures,” DiNovo said.
On the other hand, Brett Simon, a freshman majoring in mechanical engineering, is feeling worried about the upcoming finals week.
“I’m struggling in some of my classes, but I’ll figure out a way to pass them,” Simon said.
While Simon is trying to stay disciplined during prep week, he also finds time to enjoy the warm weather.
“I’ve been trying my best to use this week as a prep week, but not completely because I like going outside and the weather’s been nice lately,” Simon said. “I study at night, but I’ve been taking advantage of the good weather during the day.”
With two particularly tough exams ahead, Simon remains hopeful but concerned.
“They are probably the two hardest classes that I have,” Simon said. “I am kind of worried about those finals.”
Still, the end of the semester approaching brings him some relief.
“I’m excited to be done with school for the semester,” Simon said. “I’m taking courses over the summer and going to be working a lot.”
Colton Carver, a sophomore in aerospace engineering, is entering finals week with confidence.
“Honestly, I’m feeling pretty good,” Carver said. “Last semester, I didn’t do well throughout most of the semester. During last prep week, I feel like I really figured out my study techniques and what works well for me.”
With that experience in mind, Carver said he is not that worried about his exams. Already performing well in his classes, he’s focused on finishing strong.
“So far, I’ve just been trying to get my last few assignments done,” Carver said. “I do plan on spending the next few days really preparing for my final exams.”
While many students are eager for summer, Carver expressed a different sentiment.
“I’m not really looking forward to the end of the school year,” Carver said. “I enjoy being here more than anywhere else, but I am looking forward to my summer opportunities.”
