You dutifully undertake extra responsibilities at home. You’re a steadfast support, homework checker and study buddy. You’re the piece that really completes the whole puzzle. And you are appreciated.

Generally, the families and support systems of students aren’t recognized until graduation day. Sometimes in the grind of starting and completing a college education, the focus is so dialed in on the student, that the importance and vital support from the family can be overlooked or even taken for granted. So, on behalf of your student, and in advance, you’re the best.

You’re the best because you’re going to deal with a lot, and will still hold it all together.

1. Be understanding

Supporting your spouse’s decision to go back to school might seem like a one-time decision, but you will have to wake up each morning and choose to be understanding. You might even have to make that decision multiple times a day. Going back to school is stressful and can be intimidating. Be reassuring of your partner’s capabilities and understanding of the feelings, emotions, and responsibilities they’ve undertaken. You are the lighthouse in the storm.

2. Allow them to focus

Stepping up to the plate and shouldering more responsibility at home so your spouse can buckle down on their studying and school work will make all the difference in your spouse’s academic success. Ultimately, academic success will result in professional success that will benefit your family for years to come.

3. Celebrate the accomplishments

The best part of being a fan is watching your team win. The best part of being a spouse when your partner is in school is seeing them get an A, pass the class, graduate, and just be excellent overall. Break out those pom poms, boys and girls! Celebrate those achievements! Remind your spouse you are proud of their accomplishments - no matter how small they might be.

4. Stay connected

School is in session and everyone is busy. Dedicate yourself to making time to regularly connect with your spouse. It’s a running theme for any married couple - make time for each other, date your spouse, communicate. But it’s worth repeating. Stay anchored in your relationship. Don’t allow the research papers, presentations, and finals to take over your lives completely.

5. Remember it’s only for a season

College won’t last forever. Eventually, your spouse will complete the graduation requirements and earn their degree. The routine will shift again, and you’ll live more like you did before they enrolled. You’ll have made it through the hardship together. Seasons are temporary, and even though you might not know exactly when graduation day will be, it will come. When choosing to be supportive is harder, remember it’s just a short season of life.

You are special. You are valued. And when graduation day comes at Amberton, it’s as much about you as it is about your student spouse. So put on your game face, and rock this school experience together.

Finals are tough. No one enjoys taking them. But they’re a necessary evil for every college student. Studying for the big test is important -- of course, you know that. As finals approach it’s important to maintain consistent study sessions. When you’re getting those study juices flowing, remember these tips to maximize your time and efforts.

1. Make a Schedule

You’re a working adult student. You’ve had to carve out time to go to class, write papers, create presentations, study for tests; making time specifically to study for a final is not anything new to you. Don’t overlook or take for granted the time needed to study for the biggest exam of the semester. What’s the best way to eat a whole elephant? One bite at a time. Think of your study sessions the same way. You’ll retain more information if you divide up the material into manageable chunks, and spread out the units over the number of days you have for studying.

2. Find a Quiet Place to Concentrate

No matter what your study and homework sessions looked like throughout the semester, you have to devote your time to studying without distractions before finals. Generally, it’s the biggest portion of your grade for the class. Do you really want to risk anything less than your best because your little one chucked macaroni at you, or the line at Starbucks wrapped around your study table?

3. Ask Questions

Your professors are here to help you learn, grow, and retain the information so you can apply it in your career. If you’re unsure about a topic, ask for clarification. Make sure you set yourself up to understand. Pro tip: if your professor provides you with study guides or a practice final, complete it! Mark it up. Write all over it. And take the practice test a couple of times.

4. Cater to Your Learning Style and Preferences

By the time finals roll around you should be familiar with what works for you during your study sessions. Stick to that game plan. It’s not the time to deviate and try something new. Do what you do, and then knock it out of the park!

5. Take a Break and Rest

This is a biggie. Don’t get so bogged down studying before finals week that you kill your energy and have nothing left in the tank. Have faith that you’ve prepared yourself throughout the course for this last moment. Study and do your thing, but then take time for yourself and relax. Finish the race strong! Finals week sounds daunting and demanding than it really is. It is rigorous, but you’re a working adult student. You’re a rockstar! When you’re walking out of your exam know that you’ve accomplished a lot in taking and completing the course. Savor the feeling and know you’re thriving in college.