Many won't bother to collect homework or check to see if you've done the assigned reading. If you don't show up for class, keep up with the reading, or work the homework problems, you'll pay the price on exam day. The distractions are nonstop. Even Monday and Tuesday nights aren't sacred. From parties to concerts and student programs, there is something fun and interesting happening constantly.
Finals are intense.
Nothing you have done in life will prepare you for finals. Start early, sleep, and stay calm. Remember, everybody can't flunk and you're probably better prepared than most people in the room. People around you fail. Friends you start with will drop out.