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Big Orange Finish Line logo with the dates of May 1 through May 15

Big Orange Finish Line


May 1 – May 15

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 May 1 – 15 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.

Academic Success Center

  • Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Perkins Hall, Room 121


Chem Tutorial Center

Hours Vary by Course. Click Here for Hours.
Buehler Hall, Room 513/Strong Hall, Room 303


Language Resource Center

8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Alumni Memorial Building


Math Place

Hodges Library, North Commons

  • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • Friday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Saturday: CLOSED
  • Sunday: 3 – 7 p.m.

Finals Week

  • May 7 & 8: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • May 9: 3 – 7 p.m.
  • May 10: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • May 11: Closed
  • May 12: 3 – 7 p.m.

Physics Tutorial Center

Hours Vary by Course. Click Here for Hours.
Neilson, Room 512


Vol Study Center

Strong Hall, Room 102

  • Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Hodges Library, Room 220K

  • Sunday: 12 – 9 p.m.
  • Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Pendergrass, Study Room E

  • Monday & Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Frieson Black Cultural Center, Rooms 208 & 209

  • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • Friday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Online (via Zoom)

  • Sunday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
    • NOTE: Times can vary depending on PLA availability

Zeanah, Room 275

  • Monday & Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

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

  • May 8 – 10: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • May 11 & 12: Closed
  • May 13 – 15: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Devine Music Library

1741 Volunteer Boulevard

Hours

  • May 9: 7:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
  • May 10: 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • May 11: Closed
  • May 12: 2 – 11 p.m.
  • May 13 – May 15: 7:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.

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

  • To be announced

Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building (HPER)

1914 Andy Holt Avenue
Room 142

Students can take advantage of the HPER computer lounge to help prepare for finals and final papers.

Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Hodges Library

1015 Volunteer Boulevard

Hours

  • May 6 – 9: Open 24 Hours
  • May 10: Close at Midnight
  • May 11: 10 a.m. – Midnight
  • May 12: Open at 10 a.m.
  • May 13 & 14: Open 24 Hours
  • May 15: Close at Midnight

Pendergrass Library

2407 Riverside Drive, A-113

Hours

  • May 6 – 9: 7:30 a.m. – Midnight
  • May 10: 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • May 11: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • May 12: Noon – Midnight
  • May 13 – 16: 7:30 a.m. – Midnight
  • May 17: 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Pride Center

1502 Cumberland Avenue
Student Union, Suite 373

Hours

  • May 8 – 11; May 13 – 15: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
  • May 12: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Strong Hall

1621 West Cumberland Avenue

Lobby, Atrium, informal sitting areas throughout,
Rooms 102, 102A, 102B, 102C, 127, 128 & 246

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
Available whenever the building is open.


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.

Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
    • Will be closed at 5 p.m. on May 8 for a staff appreciation event.
  • Saturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • Sunday: 12 – 9 p.m.

Student Union

1502 Cumberland Avenue
Main Lounges throughout Student Union and SU 270 & SU 262

Students can take advantage of the Student Union community spaces to study, connect and relax. Some interactive games (Giant Jenga, Connect 4,  and more) will be available to release stress. SU 270 will also be set aside for quiet study.

Hours

  • May 8 & May 9: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. @ SU 270
  • May 10: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. @ SU 262
  • May 11: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. @ SU 270
  • May 12: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. @ SU 270
  • May 13: 3 – 10 p.m. @ SU 362
  • May 14: 7 – 10 p.m.

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.

Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
    • Will be closed at 5 p.m. on May 8 for a staff appreciation event.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10 a.m. –11 p.m.

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

  • May 8 – 11: 7 – 9 p.m.
  • May 12: 10 – 9 p.m.
  • May 13 – May 15: 7 – 9 p.m.

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

  • Monday – Friday: 12 – 4 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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

  • Monday – Friday: 12 – 4 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: Closed


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!

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

Welcome Wednesday

8 am
HSS Plaza

Wake up and smell the free coffee and breakfast! Celebrate the last Welcome Wednesday of the semester in Big Orange style. Provided by the Office of Alumni Relations.


Fueling for Finals

10 am – 2 pm
Perkins Hall, Room 122

Drop by the Academic Success Center and begin fueling up for finals! We will have snacks, study tips, and academic coaches on standby to answer your most pressing questions. Provided by the Academic Success Center.


Journaling with Kianna

10:30 – 11:15 am
Veterans Success Center

Check-in and journaling prompts and strategies for connecting, reflection, and self-relaxation! Provided by the Veterans Success Center.


Garden Party

1 – 4 pm
Circle Park

The garden fairy tea party of your dreams! Join us in welcoming warm weather and ending the semester on a great note. Provided by the Center for Student Engagement.


What’s the Scoop?

4 – 6 pm
UT Creamery

Come reflect on the year, talk about how you’ll maintain your mental health and self care over the summer and meet new people. Plus, the first 25 people get free ice cream! Provided by Rocky Top Recovery.


Veteran End of Semester Celebration

4 – 7 pm
Ayers Plaza

Student Veterans, come celebrate the end of the semester and enjoy some great food and community! Provided by the Veterans Success Center.


Tennessee River Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

4 – 8 pm
TRECS

Join us for an afternoon of paddle boarding the Tennessee River through Knoxville! No experience is necessary and transportation and equipment will be available through Outdoor Pursuits. Provided by RecSports.

Fueling for Finals

10 am – 2 pm
Perkins Hall, Room 122

Drop by the Academic Success Center and begin fueling up for finals! We will have snacks, study tips, and academic coaches on standby to answer your most pressing questions. Provided by the Academic Success Center.


Field Day

4 – 7 pm
Humanities and Social Science Lawn

Celebrate the end of semester with games, sports, non-athletic events and food! Provided by the Center for Student Engagement and Campus Events Board.


Grad Countdown

4 – 7 pm
Tyson Alumni Center

Class of 2024, join your classmates in celebrating your upcoming graduation and learn how to stay involved with UT after you cross the stage! Provided by the Office of Alumni Relations.


Glow Zumba

8:30 – 10 pm
RecSports

Come take a Zumba class that glows in the dark! Wear your neon and come glow under the blacklight. We’ll have glow sticks, glow face paint, and neon everything! Check-in begins at 8:30 pm and the dancing will start at 9 pm. Provided by RecSports.

I Heart UT Because

10 am – 2 pm
Ped Walkway

Celebrate the last Big Orange Friday of the year and share why you love UT to score some free swag! Provided by the Office of Alumni Relations.


Bloom

12 – 1 pm
Ped Walkway

Pick up a flower and card to give to someone as way to show some of your gratitude for them this school year! Provided by the Division of Student Success.


When Nature Calls

1:30 – 2:15 pm
Veterans Success Center

Disconnect from technology and studying with a 30-45 minute walk with the VSC staff! Provided by the Veterans Success Center.

Whitewater Kayaking Weekend

All Weekend
RecSports

Learn new skills, sharpen your fundamentals, or just enjoy a weekend on the water with us! Beginner friendly, but participants must be able to swim prior to the trip. UTOP provides necessary equipment and transportation. If interested, you can sign up here. Registration will close on April 27 at 5 pm. There will also be a mandatory pool session in the Student Aquatic Center held the Wednesday before the trip. Provided by RecSports.

Success is Sweet

1 – 2 pm
Ped Walkway

Mix your own Candy Salad and design custom shoelaces to celebrate your accomplishments this school year! Provided by the Division of Student Success.


Milkshake Monday

12 pm

Come out for an informal opportunity to connect with the Office of the Dean of Students. Chat with our staff about your student experience at UT and receive a free milkshake and some swag! Provided by the Office of the Dean of Students.


Meditation Monday

3:30 – 4 pm
Veterans Success Center

Come reset your nervous system and unwind with some meditation! Provided by the Veterans Success Center.


First-Gen Graduate Reception

4 – 6 pm
Student Union, Ballrooms AB

First-Gen seniors, we are proud to celebrate your commencement from UT! Enjoy a time of food, VIP speakers, and activities designed to celebrate your accomplishments. Provided by First-Generation Initiatives.


Late Night Jam

6:30 – 9:30 pm
Frieson Black Cultural Center Plaza & Fred Brown Theatre Lawn

The Multicultural Mentoring Program is hosting their semi-annual Late Night Jam! Take a break from the stress of exams and enjoy a variety of food, games and activities to recharge your mind. There will be a fun blend of studying, fun, and bonding to help you through the upcoming study sessions. Provided by the Division of Student Life.

Brewing Success: Coffee with VIPs

10 – 11 am
Pendergrass Starbucks

Come meet campus leadership while enjoying some free coffee! Provided by the Division of Student Success.


URF Popsicle Stand

2 – 4 pm
Ped Walkway

Beat the heat and celebrate the last day of classes with a popsicle stand! Come out to get a free popsicle (while supplies last) behind Melrose Hall. Provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships.


Volapalooza

4 – 10 pm
Circle Park

Free to all attendees (just bring your VolCard), come out and enjoy music, food trucks, activities, giveaways, and photo spots! Artists to be announced soon. Provided by the Center for Student Engagement.

Review Rally

8:30 am – 8:30 pm
Strong Hall

Join us for a full day of review! We will be offering final exam prep for the following courses: MATH 119, MATH 123, MATH 125, MATH 131, ME 202, EF 105, EF 141, and EF 151. The final schedule will be announced soon! Provided by the Vol Study Center.


Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Study Day Tutoring

9:30 am – 5 pm (HSS 212), 9:30 am – 7 pm (Online), 11 am – 4 pm (Hodges Library; Drop-In)

Need help with your writing? Join us at one of our in-person locations or online! We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.


Brewing Success

10 – 11 am
Keoke Coffee Bar at Burchfiel Plaza

Come out and enjoy some free coffee! Provided by the Division of Student Success.


Medication Take Back

10 am – 2 pm
Hodges Library

Proudly partnering with the Metro Drug Coalition and UTPD, we are working to reduce the number of unused, unwanted, and expired medications on our campus and in our community! Disposing your medications properly reduces the risk of substance misuse and environmental harm caused by flushing or throwing medications away improperly. Items dropped off are kept anonymous and no questions will be asked. Additionally, we’ll have naloxone kits and training, medication lock boxes, snacks, hot chocolate/tea and giveaways! Provided by the Center for Health Education and Wellness.


Journaling with Kianna

10:30 – 11:15 am
Veterans Success Center

Stop in for some check-in and journaling prompts and strategies for connecting, reflection, and self-esteem. Provided by the Veterans Success Center.


Study Day in Hodges

11 am – 4 pm
Hodges Library

Take advantage of Study Day and see a Peer Learning Assistant from the Vol Study Center or get some help from the Math Place or Writing Center! Get some extra studying in and grab some pizza or a snack. No appointment is necessary! Provided by the Vol Study Center.


Pups, Cups & Coaches

12 – 3 pm
Hodges Library, Mary Greer Room

Your ultimate prescription for pre-finals jitters, dive into a realm of wagging tails and fluffy cuddles as adorable dogs from the Humane Society await to melt your stress away! But that’s not all – refuel your study sessions with coffee, ensuring you’re powered up for success. And for that extra boost of confidence, engage with our seasoned academic coaches who are armed with strategies and encouragement to help you conquer your finals with ease! Provided by the Academic Success Center.


Yoga & Meditation Destress

3 – 3:30 pm
Hodges Library, Room 213

Finals week can be a stressful time but we want to make sure you have opportunities to shed some that stress! Come do some chair yoga and learn meditation techniques to help you enter finals relaxed. No equipment necessary! Provided by the Academic Success Center.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Finals Tutoring

9:30 am – 7 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Finals Tutoring

9:30 am – 4 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Tutoring

4 – 7 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We will be offering help with writing for undergraduate students. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Tutoring

9:30 am – 7 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.


Cheese Dogs

8 – 10 pm
Hodges Library

Take a break from studying to have a delicious treat and unwind with the HABIT dogs! Enjoy hot dogs, custom mac n cheese, featuring All Vol cheese, and other tasty treats. Plus come pet some pups – you deserve it! Provided by the Division of Student Success.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Tutoring

9:30 am – 7 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.

Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center Tutoring

9:30 am – 7 pm
Online

Need help with your writing? We offer help with writing for undergraduates, graduates, veterans and ESL. Please click here to make an appointment. Provided by the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center.