No Finals! Woo!

The third week in December usually spells one thing for students: finals. This time of year causes hours of stress, studying, and cumulative assessments. Like most other things in 2020, COVID-19 has completely changed the norm; this year, there will be no finals first semester. As students across the school rejoice at this fact, I want to dive deeper into the benefits and consequences of this development.

Let’s begin with the obvious: no finals means less stress. In addition to all the stress that comes with the holiday season and anxieties about COVID, worrying about six or seven exams would be a strain on the mental health of the students and teachers, too. Sandburg students want to show their teachers their capabilities in their subject, and many spend countless hours preparing to ace their assessments.Overworking is fatiguing and can lead to serious side effects such as sleep deprivation, irritability, and anxiety. Without finals this semester, students can compose themselves, especially during the new learning model.

Moreover, many students find it difficult to learn effectively online and are struggling academically as a result. Unfortunately, some people turned to cheating as a way to bolster their grade. Consequently, their score on the final may be convoluted because, in a typical school situation, they would have understood better. Since it’s possible that notes are out, answers to questions are shared, or students are lost in confusion, teachers will not be able to accurately know the true scope of the student’s ability in their class. Evidently, eliminating finals this semester will prevent students from developing a dishonest work ethic.

Another reason why not having finals this semester is beneficial is the added time students can spend with their family and friends. Let’s be real: the pandemic is an isolating time. With limited interactions with others, the safe connections made with others is cherished. As a junior, I usually have two to four hours of homework every night.