As the spring semester comes to an end, students at Nicholls State University are preparing for one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year: finals week. Between major exams, research papers and last-minute projects, many students say the pressure is building fast. Along with academic stress, students are also working to protect their mental health and stay motivated as the semester reaches its final stretch.

To help students succeed, Nicholls has extended Ellender Memorial Library hours, giving students more time and space to study late into the night.

Finals week can bring anxiety and exhaustion for students who are trying to balance multiple classes at once.

“I’m not even gonna lie, I’ve been stressed for weeks,” said Jalen Carter, a sophomore majoring in Business Administration. “It feels like everything is due at the same time. You don’t even get a chance to breathe.”

Carter said he has been staying up late studying almost every night.

“It’s hard because even when you’re done studying, you still feel like you should be doing more,” he said.

Some students say professors have been accommodating during finals season by offering review sessions, study guides and reminders about deadlines.

Trey Collins, a senior in Marketing, said certain professors have made finals season easier.

“A couple of my teachers are really helpful,” Collins said. “They’ll give you a study guide and actually take time to go over what you need to know.”

Students report that finals bring increased anxiety, lack of sleep, and burnout.

“I get test anxiety really bad,” said Aaliyah Boudreaux, a freshman majoring in Psychology. “Even if I study, I still feel like I’m not prepared enough. It’s draining.”

Boudreaux said she tries to manage her stress by taking breaks and staying organized.

“I have to remind myself to step away sometimes,” she said. “If I don’t, I’ll get overwhelmed.”

One of the biggest resources students rely on during finals is Ellender Memorial Library. With more students needing quiet places to study, the library has announced extended hours to support students during the busiest exam period.

The extended schedule begins the week of May 6 and continues through May 15, with the library staying open until midnight and even as late as 2 a.m. on select nights.

Ellender Library Extended Finals Hours (May 6–May 16):

• Wednesday, May 6: 8 a.m. – 2 a.m.
• Thursday, May 7: 8 a.m. – 2 a.m.
• Friday, May 8: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9: 8 a.m. – 4:30.
• Sunday, May 10: 3:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
• Monday, May 11: 8 a.m. – 2 a.m.
• Tuesday, May 12: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.
• Wednesday, May 13: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.
• Thursday, May 14: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.
• Friday, May 15: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16: Closed

Many students say the extended hours are extremely helpful, especially those who prefer late-night studying.

“The library is honestly the best place to focus,” said Madison Richard, a junior nursing student. “When it stays open late, it helps a lot because I can study without distractions.”

Study Tips Students Recommend

As finals approach, students shared study methods that help them stay prepared:

• Start studying early instead of cramming
• Use the library for fewer distractions
• Make a planner or checklist for deadlines
• Use flashcards or practice tests
• Study with friends but stay on task
• Take breaks and prioritize sleep

While finals week is a major academic test, students say it is also a test of discipline, energy and mental strength. With stress levels rising, campus resources like Ellender Library’s extended hours give students a better chance to stay productive and prepared.

“I’m stressed, but I’m ready for it to be over,” Carter said. “Once finals are done, I’m catching up on sleep.”

As the countdown to finals continues, Nicholls students are doing what they can to finish strong—studying late, managing stress and leaning on support systems to make it through one of the most demanding weeks of the semester. 

For more information on the library and operating hours, check out the official Ellender Memorial Library calendar here.