Before students can fully indulge and relax on the holiday break, they have one last task to complete — finals.
It is normal for exams to cause elevated stress as students work diligently, making sure their grades are up to par before the semester ends.
To cope with the heightened anxiety, the University of Tennessee offers several opportunities for students to participate, including Big Orange Finish Line.
BOFL is a week-long event designed to support students mentally during finals week at Hodges Library and the Student Union. The Medbery Makerspace room, located inside Hodges, is one example of a student engagement activity offered by BOFL week.
As most students have their own ways of restoring calm and unwinding, other students find that building crafts gives them the same soothing effect. At Hodges, some of the crafts students can create are festive holiday cards and 3D dinosaur cards.
Isabella Vrba, a junior studying psychology, has worked with Makerspace since last semester. She spoke on what she hopes students will gain from this activity.
“It is a time for students to come in, use this space for crafts and a time to get away from studying for finals,” Vrba said.
Although buttons and gameday pins have been a popular selection throughout the semester, Vrba spoke on what supplies students find most enjoyable and useful.
“People are coming in for the dinosaurs because everybody loves them and they are super easy, fun and just a few minutes to take away,” Vrba said.
Lilian Pouncy, a freshman studying chemistry, enjoys attending the Makerspace. She fills her time assembling her works of art since her finals are not until next week.
“I am in the maker space every day regardless that I don’t work here,” Pouncy said.
Not only does this event allow students to decompress, but it also allows them to embrace the holiday spirit. Pouncy took her crafts to the next level and created a personal gift for one of her family members.
She plans to make a peyote star which involves an intricate process of weaving miniature beads one by one. Her finished product will look like a holiday-themed 3D star.
Her inspiration is derived from a beloved family tradition, every Christmas her nana always gives her a star ornament. Pouncy spoke on her excitement of returning the favor to her nana.
“I never give her a star ornament,” Pouncy said. “She always sends me stars, so it is a surprise.”
Whether students celebrate Christmas or another holiday, this season is all about giving. Students can incorporate this spirit by handcrafting gifts that convey a deeper meaning to the recipient.
Vrba spoke on what handcrafted gifts mean to her.
“I think it makes it more personable, not that store-bought isn’t, but it is something you took time out of your day to make something for another person and that means a lot to both people,” Vrba said. “It can build a better connection — I also think it’s simple because it doesn’t take a lot of time or doesn’t cost much.”
Given that many college students may face financial challenges and the holidays can lead to increased spending, self-made gifts can save students money rather than store-bought cards. The DIY gifts also support the environment by reducing excess packaging and waste.
