BY: Hannah Long
It is that time of year again where college students are stressed out while studying for midterms. Whether a student is taking three classes or six, the stress is real.
Everyone handles their stress differently, and everyone studies differently. I know all too well about the stress of midterms and trying to figure out how to study for them all. Taking multiple classes and having a midterm in every single one can be very overwhelming.
For freshmen, this is their first time taking midterms, so of course they’re going to be extremely overwhelmed. For the seniors, this is their last midterm and they are wanting to make it count. Being a senior myself, I know a lot that can help anyone, from freshmen to seniors, succeed in their midterms.
First, do not try to study for all your classes at once. This will cause a major headache, and honestly, you will more than likely start thinking the answers for one class are for another class. Take time to study for each class individually. Leading up to midterms, make a study guide early and review it every day, even if it is just for minutes. When it is midterm week, you can review the study guide that was made instead of trying to cram it all at once. Do this for all your classes and you will feel so relieved when you are studying.
Second, take breaks! This is so important. If you are struggling to stay awake or having a hard time retaining information, take a break. Go make a coffee or drive to get one. Go for a walk or a quick workout. Do something to take your mind off of studying for a little bit so when you do go back to it, your mind is fresh. Breaks are so important. Another thing you could do during your break is splash cold water on your face to help you wake up.
Lastly, just breathe. During my first year at AUM, one of my teachers talked to the class about midterms as freshmen. Of course, we were all freaking out because we had never taken them before, but I remember her telling us to, “just breathe.” If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a few minutes to breathe. Focus on your breathing to calm your heart rate. Everything will be okay. Do not beat yourself up over these tests and have confidence in yourself.
Do not let midterms make or break you. You are going to do great!
Good luck!