March is the Trojan horse of the semester. While the end of midterms and the start of spring lull us into a false sense of security, final exams are lurking just out of sight. In April, when they do arrive, it’s crucial to put yourself first—but that doesn’t mean forgetting those around you. Fostering a sense of community can make this stressful time a little easier for everyone. As finals season approaches, The Tribune has put together a few simple ways to support your friends. After all, the whole student community thrives when we look out for each other.

Respect their study style

Not everyone works best in the same study environment. Some people need absolute silence, while others focus better in a lively café or with background noise. Before inviting a friend to a group study session or quizzing them on course material, check in on what works best for them. Even the best of friends may not be compatible study buddies—and that’s okay. It’s also important to recognize when someone needs space. If a friend declines your invitation to study together or prefers to work alone, don’t take it personally. Respecting everyone’s study preference shows real consideration and helps everyone stay productive.  

Encourage breaks

In a culture that valorizes productivity, many of us mistakenly try to maximize our work time by taking as few breaks as possible. Oftentimes, breaks can feel unnecessary or even counterproductive. However, regular study breaks can lower stress and even improve recall, helping you make the most out of your time in the long run. Encourage your friends to avoid burnout by stepping away from their desks for a while. Remind your friends (and yourself) that breaks don’t have to be long—it can take as little as five minutes to refresh the mind and body. Prompt them to get some fresh air, grab a snack, or relocate to a new study spot. 

Offer practical help

Support doesn’t have to come in grand gestures—sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness make the biggest difference. If a friend is drowning in assignments, offer to proofread an essay, help organize their notes, or create flashcards for key concepts. If they’re struggling to stay motivated, suggest studying together for accountability or remind them to set a few manageable goals for the day. Even simple gestures, like saving your friend a library seat during peak hours, grabbing an extra snack, or reminding them of an upcoming deadline, can lighten their load. By offering practical help, you can lessen their burden and show them they’re not alone.

Celebrate small wins

Finals season can feel like an endless grind, with one major task blurring into the next. That’s why celebrating small victories is so important—it helps break the cycle of stress and reminds us of all the progress we’ve made. Whether a friend submits a tough paper, powers through a challenging study session, or endures another taxing group project, acknowledging their effort can make a huge difference. Send a quick message of encouragement, treat them to a coffee, or plan a short study break to unwind together. Recognizing these wins, no matter how small, helps make finals feel a little less overwhelming.

Direct them to on-campus resources

Sometimes, the best way to support a friend is by connecting them with the right resources. At McGill, students can navigate exam season with a range of free academic assistance and mental health support. Student associations often host group study sessions, providing a collaborative learning environment, while the Student Wellness Hub offers stress-relief activities like animal therapy, Mount Royal walks, and Art Hive open studios. A quick reminder about these services can make all the difference in easing a friend’s stress.