Skip to content Skip to main navigation Report an accessibility issue

Big Orange Finish Line


December 1-10

Whether you’re a first-year or senior, we know Finals Week can be an incredibly stressful time. That’s why we’re happy to offer Big Orange Finish Line from December 1-10 as a way to help walk away from finals as stress-free as possible!

Big Orange Finish Line is made possible through a collaboration between the Dean of Students, Student Life, Student Success, the Student Union, and University Libraries.

All times and locations subject to change.

Overnight Parking for Study Day & Finals

More info coming soon!


Academic Success Center

Regular business hours

  • Monday-Friday: 8 am – 5 pm

Chem Tutorial Center

More info coming soon!


Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center

Serves student writers in all disciplines of the UT academic community by offering free and individualized help throughout the writing process

Click here to make an appointment for one-on-one writing help.

Hours

  • Monday, Dec. 1: In-person appointments: 9:45 am – 4:30 pm (In-Person) | 9:45 – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Tuesday, December 2: 9:45 am – 4:30 pm (In-Person) | 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Wednesday, December 3: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (In-Person: drop-in Hodges 213; no appointment needed) | 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Thursday, December 4: 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Friday, December 5: 9:45 am – 3:45 pm (Online)
  • Sunday, December 7: 4:30 – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Monday, December 8: 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Tuesday, December 9: 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)
  • Wednesday, December 10: 9:45 am – 6:45 pm (Online)

Language Resource Center

More info coming soon!


Math Place

For all students taking 100 or 200 level math courses, we invite you to come to The Math Place. The Math Place is here to help you learn, grow, get your questions answered, and prepare for exams.

Come and interact with other VOLS that are taking the same course as you, while being supported by undergraduates that have been successful in their math classes.

Visit the Math Place’s website for tutor schedules and daily hours.

Final Exam Week Hours

  • Monday, December 1:10 am – 7 pm
  • Tuesday, December 2 (Last Day of Classes): 10 am – 3 pm
  • Wednesday, December 3 (Study Day): 10 am – 9 pm
  • Thursday, December 4: 10 am – 7 pm
  • Friday, December 5: 10 am – 3 pm
  • Sunday, December 7: 3 – 9 pm (Last day open of fall semester)

Physics Tutorial Center

More info coming soon!


Vol Study Center

Regular business hours

  • Monday-Friday: 8 am – 5 pm

To see all the locations of the collaborative finals spaces, check out the UT Map!
All times and locations subject to change.

Ayres Hall

1403 Circle Drive
Room 116 (Math Student Lounge) & Room 119 (Math Student Lounge)

Students can take advantage of Ayers to gain valuable Math tutoring throughout finals!

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Devine Music Library

1741 Volunteer Boulevard

Extended Hours

  • December 4: 7:30 am – 11 pm
  • December 7: 2 – 11 pm
  • December 8: 7:30 am – 11 pm
  • December 9: 7:30 am – 11 pm

Frieson Black Cultural Center

1800 Melrose Avenue
Frieson Black Cultural Center Library (BCC 113), Lounge (BCC 115), and Multi-Purpose Room (BCC 203)

These spaces are open to any students and usually first-come, first-served.

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building (HPER)

1914 Andy Holt Avenue

Finals Week Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Hodges Library

1015 Volunteer Boulevard

Extended Hours

  • December 5: Closes at midnight
  • December 6: 10 am – midnight

Pendergrass Library

2407 Riverside Drive, A-113

Extended Hours

  • December 1-4: 7:30 am – Midnight
  • December 5: 7:30 am – 8 pm
  • December 6: 10 am – 8 pm
  • December 7: 12 pm – Midnight
  • December 8-11: 7:30 am – Midnight

Perkins Hall

1506 Middle Drive

Student study space will be available with tables, computers, and whiteboards.

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Strong Hall

1621 West Cumberland Avenue

Lobby, Atrium, Rooms 127, 128, and 246, and informal sitting areas throughout multiple floors. Rooms 102, 104, 105, 106, and 126 will also be open study space for all students.

Strong Hall offers students various areas to study including informal spaces scattered throughout the building as well as a dedicated resource center and small study room.

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Student Aquatic Center

2106 Andy Holt Avenue
Main Lobby of the Aquatic Center

TRECS and the Student Aquatic Center not only offer students a place to exercise their bodies but also their minds. Take a break from working out and utilize a designated and informal study space to prepare for finals.

Finals Week Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Student Union

1502 Cumberland Avenue
Main Lounges throughout Student Union and SU 270

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

TRECS

2111 Volunteer Boulevard
Room 108

TRECS and the Student Aquatic Center not only offer students a place to exercise their bodies but also their minds. Take a break from working out and utilize a designated and informal study space to prepare for finals.

Regular Hours

  • Monday-Friday: 6 am – 11 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am – 9 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am – 11 pm

Finals Week Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Zeanah Engineering Complex

863 Neyland Drive
Atrium, Room 258 (Tutorial Space for First-Year Engineering), Room 361 (Tutorial Space for Honors First-Year Engineering), and other Informal Seating throughout Complex.

Zeanah Engineering Complex offers students a great location to prepare for finals with informal and formal study spaces, as well as an Aramark POD on the first floor.

Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Big Orange Pantry

Student Union, Suite 376C

The Big Orange Pantry is available to all current students and is designed to provide a variety of non-perishable and fresh foods, hygiene products, and other essential items. This is provided by the Division of Student Life.

Normal Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 11 a.m – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: 12 – 4 p.m.

Finals Week Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Pocket Pantries

  • Pendergrass Library
  • The Free Store

Basic Needs Vending Machine

  • TRECS

Smokey’s Closet

Student Union, Suite 376C

Smokey’s Closet is available to all current students and is designed to provide free, gently used professional and business casual clothing, shoes, and accessories. This is provided by the Division of Student Life.

Normal Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 11 a.m – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: 12 – 4 p.m.

Finals Week Hours

  • More info coming soon!

Physical fitness has been shown to provide tremendous stress release and help with mental health. TRECs is proud to over many classes and resources to help you focus, de-stress, and get in some activity! Click the button below to check out their schedule.

CHECK OUT THE TRECS SCHEDULE!


Big Orange Finish Line Events

Check out the dropdown options below to find the locations, hours and events that will make up Big Orange Finish Line!

Additionally, many student organizations on campus will also be hosting events throughout this same time period. Be sure to check out the VOLink to see what else is going on across campus!

We’re constantly adding new events so make sure to check back to see what’s on the schedule!

Coffee, Cookes & Clara Belle

9 am – 12 pm
DeVine Music Library

Cookie decorating and HABIT Dogs with coffee! Provided by UT Libraries.


Milkshake Monday

12 pm – Until Supplies Run Out
Hodges Library Vestibule

Chat with our staff about your student experience at UT and receive free milkshakes while supplies last! Provided by the Center for Student Advocacy and the Office of the Dean of Students.


Dean on the Go

1:30 – 3:30 pm
Follow @UTKDeanofStudents to find their location!

Vols, keep your eyes peeled for the Dean of Students or one of the Associate Deans out on campus! They’ll be handing out snacks, drinks, and small goodies to help you power through your day! Provided by the Dean of Students.

Dean on the Go

10:30 am – 12 pm
Follow @UTKDeanofStudents to find their location!

Vols, keep your eyes peeled for the Dean of Students or one of the Associate Deans out on campus! They’ll be handing out snacks, drinks, and small goodies to help you power through your day! Provided by the Dean of Students.


Trivia Tuesday: Music Wrapped

7:30 – 9 pm
Student Union Ballroom

Every November, Spotify Wrapped and Apple Music Replay give music lovers a look back at their top artists and songs from the year. Inspired by this tradition, join us for a fun-filled night of music trivia spanning multiple genres and decades. Whether you’re a pop enthusiast, hip-hop lover, or rock aficionado, there’s something for everyone. Plus food and drinks to enjoy while you play! Provided by the Center for Student Engagement.


Late Night Breakfast Jam

9 pm – 12 am
Frieson Black Cultural Center

Take a study break and join us for a late-night breakfast! We’ll have food, music, crafts, and cozy study spaces as you prepare for finals. Provided by the Office for Campus Culture and Community and the BRIDGE Peer Mentoring Program.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP!

 

Finals Writing Blitz

9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Hodges Library, Room 213

Come get some drop-in writing and research consultations on Study Day! If you’re working on a writing assignment for any class, come by to work on it and chat with us about it–no appointment needed! Stress-busting activities will also be available to help you relax! Provided by the Herbert Writing Center and UT Libraries.


Build-A-Kit: Your Perfect Study Day Pack

10:30 am – 12 pm
Hodges Library, Mary Greer Room

Drop by to create your own study kit essential pack to get you ready for study day! Choose from highlighters, index cards, notepads, and more! Leave with the tools to stay organized, tips from our Academic Coaches to stay on track, and snacks to stay fueled! Provided by the Academic Success Center.


PLSC 130 Plant Adoption & Coffee Boost

11 am – 2 pm
Pendergrass Library

Adopt a plant (while supplies last) and enjoy a hot cup of coffee from Capybara Coffee! Provided by the Smith International Center, Department of Plant Sciences, and UT Libraries.


Crafternoon: E-Reader Insert Making

12 – 2 pm
Hodges Library, Medberry Makerspace

Join us to make a collage for your clear e-reader case with scrapbooking supplies and public domain images! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Paws & Pause with Grimm

2 – 3 pm
Hodges Library, Room 220K

Don’t fur-get to take care of yourself and take a paws from studying! Drop by to meet Grimm the HABIT dog, get yourself a treat bag, and connect with our academic coaches and Peer Learning Assistants to stay on top of your study day!. Provided by the Academic Success Center.


Introduction to Fellowships: Discover What’s Possible

4 – 5 pm
LIB212

Curious about fellowships but not sure where to start? This session introduces a range of academic, professional, and study abroad opportunities open to students from all backgrounds. Learn how to explore your options, access campus support, and take the first steps toward a strong application. Provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research, Fellowships & Service Learning.


Getting Started in Research: Undergraduate Research Info Session

5 – 6 pm
Hodges Library, Ground Floor & Room G020

Curious about research but not sure where to start? Join this introductory session to explore opportunities through Undergraduate Research, Fellowships & Service Learning. Learn how to get involved, access resources, and connect with faculty mentors. Perfect for students new to research. Provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research, Fellowships & Service Learning.


You’ve Done Research – Now What? Turning Experience Into Opportunity

6 – 7 pm
Hodges Library, Ground Floor & Room G020

You’ve gained experience—now learn how to make it count. This session helps you turn research, internships, or study abroad into career-building assets. Discover how to identify accomplishments, highlight transferable skills, and confidently share your story in applications, interviews, and beyond. Provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research, Fellowships & Service Learning.


Cheese Dogs

8 – 9 pm
Hodges Library, Ground Floor & Room G020

Take a break from study stress to have a delicious treat and unwind with the HABIT dogs. Enjoy hot dogs, custom mac n cheese ft. All Vol Cheese, and other tasty treats, and pet a pup – you deserve it! Provided by the Division of Student Success and UT Libraries.


Cereal Bar

8 – 9 pm
Hodges Library, 2nd Floor

Join us for a late night cereal bar for some finals fuel! Provided by the UT Libraries.

Outdoor Game Time

11 am – 2 pm
Pendergrass Library

Play giant Connect Four and giant Jenga with your friends or a librarian! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Magnet Making

11 am – 2 pm
DeVine Music Library

Make small decorative magnets using sheets of magnetic material and stickers from our sticker collection! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Exam Snack Attack – Winter Edition

12 – 5 pm
Academic Resource Building

Calling all Honors scholars! Feel free to stop by the University Honors offices for a quick pick-me-up in the form of some snacks! Provided by the University Honors.


Dean on the Go

1 – 2:30 pm
Follow @UTKDeanofStudents to find their location!

Vols, keep your eyes peeled for the Dean of Students or one of the Associate Deans out on campus! They’ll be handing out snacks, drinks, and small goodies to help you power through your day! Provided by the Dean of Students.

Outdoor Game Time

11 am – 2 pm
Pendergrass Library

Play giant Connect Four and giant Jenga with your friends or a librarian! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Holiday Card Making

11 am – 2 pm
DeVine Music Library

Make holiday cards with logs of craft and collage supplies! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Bookbinding Workshop

11 am – 2 pm
Hodges Library, Medberry Makerspace

Beginner bookbinding workshop on the Coptic Stitch method to craft your very own journal or sketchbook. All materials will be provided. Seating is limited to just 16 spots so make sure to register using the link below as soon as possible! Provided by the UT Libraries.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP!

More Events Coming Soon!

Holiday Card Making

2 – 6 pm
DeVine Music Library

Make holiday cards with logs of craft and collage supplies! Provided by the UT Libraries.

Outdoor Game Time

11 am – 2 pm
Pendergrass Library

Play giant Connect Four and giant Jenga with your friends or a librarian! Provided by the UT Libraries.


Magnet Making

11 am – 2 pm
DeVine Music Library

Make small decorative magnets using sheets of magnetic material and stickers from our sticker collection! Provided by the UT Libraries.

More Events Coming Soon!

More Events Coming Soon!