Linnea Noeldner-
From 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29th, the Midnight Express will roll around to Gustavus as one of the last events of the 2024-25 school year. Hosted by the Campus Activities Board and organized by the Traditions Executives, Sophomore Mary Steffen and Junior Nora Henson, the event is a de-stressor for students to come in and enjoy some entertainment as well as good food before the end of the semester.
“Since both Nora and I will have a crazy finals week and we know other students do too, we decided to call this Midnight Express ‘Hot Mess Express’ as that is how we are all feeling,” Steffen said.
This semester’s Midnight Express will have chicken and cauliflower wings, mac and cheese, french fries, ice cream, and other Hors d’oeuvres, ensuring that there’s a little something for everyone. The event will be hosted by CAB as well as some of students’ favorite professors from around the campus, like Darsa Donelan, Robert Shoemaker, Chad Winterfeldt, and others.
In addition to the food, there will also be performances for the Gusties to enjoy with their Midnight Express. Student performances will start in the beginning at 8:00 p.m. and will be followed by LineUs, Gustavus’s improv group, at 9:00 p.m. To finish the night off, Waking Hours will play a set as well.
“Midnight Express is an event put on so students can have a chance to relax and eat before finals,” Steffen said.
‘Hot Mess Express’ promises to be the perfect break before finals, offering food, fun, and a sense of community. Don’t miss out on this much-needed stress reliever!
As well as the Midnight Express, other resources and advice are provided for Gusties to manage finals and push through the rest of the semester. In response to the final mental push for students, the GustieWELL Office is offering encouragement, resources, and reminders to help Gusties finish the year with strength, support, and self-care.
“Take breaks to prioritize yourself by moving your body and staying connected with your peers so you can finish the year strong together!” Coordinator of Wellness Education and the GustieWELL coordinator, Justine Schultz, said.
The GustieWELL Office provides a wide range of services aimed at supporting student health and success. They apply a public health approach to build a campus culture that fosters student success and lifelong well-being through experiential learning. The Peer Assistants serve in a leadership role on campus and also help with encouraging student connections.
“Make a game plan, but be flexible. Take time to prioritize what needs to be done by listing your deadlines, exams, and what needs the most time. Break it down and divide big tasks into bite-sized chunks. Make sure to have daily goals so you can focus on 1-3 important things a day so you don’t overpack your to-do list,” Schultz said.
GustieWELL emphasizes that it’s okay to step away from your books for a walk, a dance break in your room, or even just a quick chat with a friend. Movement and connection help combat burnout and remind you that you’re not alone in this.
By leaning on community, taking care of your mental and physical health, and keeping your goals in view, the GustieWELL encourages students to approach finals not just with focus, but with compassion for themselves. Because finishing strong isn’t just about academic performance, it’s about holding onto your well-being along the way.
“It is important to remind yourself not to compare yourself to others, as everyone studies differently. Remember to have positive self-talk and be kind to yourself. Instead of saying ‘I am going to fail, try reframing it with “I have prepared and will do my best!” Schultz said.
For the freshmen of Gustavus getting through their first year of spring finals, the GustieWELL also has steps to take on how to get through the last of their freshman year. Sleep is encouraged as opposed to pulling all-nighters, being a crucial part of self-care and ensuring the best success for yourself.
For a final helping hand, the library is setting aside a period with the Peer Assistants on Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a refuel period for the scholars. With some brain fuel food provided, it’s a last-minute opportunity for Gusties to take time and reset before continuing their studies. It’s a free period of relaxation, and the Peer Assistants and GustieWELL root for Gusties to come spend some time away from their hard work.
“Be kind to yourself” is the name of the game at the end of the day, as well as diligent focus. Instead of procrastinating, the GustieWELL suggests setting up a game and prioritizing the deadlines, exams, and what needs the most time overall. Whether you’re looking for study support, a safe space to talk, or just a little encouragement, the GustieWELL team is a resource for students.