Midterms are the halfway point to the end of the semester. They are a great way to gauge where you are and how you are doing in your classes. However helpful they may be, they are also one of the most stressful times within the semester. While school is a priority, so is your mental health and well-being.
I have taken some time to come up with a few lifestyle tips to help with the swirling chaos and possible impending doom.
I’m kidding. You’re fine. Everything is fine.
Turn OFF Your Phone
Between Instagram, iMessage, Snapchat, and basically every other social media/text app you can think of, something is always pinging. While you are studying for your exams, it could be a good idea to silence your phone or shut it off. Focusing is hard enough as it is, and the distractions from your phone can make the task at hand even more difficult to complete.
Go for a Walk!
Staring at a screen for hours on end is not good for your health. We live in Charleston, the most beautiful city in the United States (in my humble opinion). Take a break and go outside. Look at the world for a little bit. We have a lot to see here. The fresh air will do wonders for your brain, and the break will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to get more done.
Make a Snack
You cannot forget to eat while you are working. Your body needs nutrition. Your brain needs food. Be sure to eat breakfast. It really is the most important meal of the day. It will kickstart your metabolism and keep you running throughout the day. Snacking while you work is not bad. I know how you can get so invested in your work that you forget to feed yourself. I do that all the time. But you need to eat. Have some fruit. And when you finish studying, reward yourself with some ice cream.
Music…
Honestly, it is the cure to everything bad in life – from stressors to sadness. I even listen to music while I study. Last year, President Hsu made study playlists for Midterms and Finals. I personally cannot listen to music with lyrics when I am studying, so I listen to instrumental music or lofi. It sets a vibe, and I feel as though I get more done when music is playing.
There is no actual impending doom when it comes to midterms and exams. Just take a deep breath and do the best you can. You will be fine. I promise.