There’s always that time of the semester that rolls around, and manages to almost be
worse than finals… I know you’re thinking how could midterms be worse than finals, but
they are (or at least in my opinion). With finals you know a break is coming, not too far
from your reach, but with midterms the only thing in your distance is more work. I’m on
to my second round of midterms, yes second. This week has been my “break”, a break
filled with case studies, presentations and more work to do. Sometimes it’s hard to
remain calm or even sane during midterms, but I promise you’ll make it through. I
understand you may doubt me, but these are my fool-proof tips to making it through
midterms…
1. Seriously, get some sleep. I know students hear that all the time, but it couldn’t be
truer. I discovered this week what a true lack of sleep could do to you and it wasn’t
pretty. Being delirious is never fun.
2. Be productive. This entails both academic and “regular” life. Get your work done, but
give yourself time for some breaks. You’re going to need them. I personally can’t sit
and study for hours on end. If you’re truly dedicated use study breaks to ?nish work
from other classes (did this all last week). I call it productive procrastinating, so you
don’t feel as bad about not studying.
3. EAT. Make sure you eat your meals, and don’t skip out on any. If you do, you will
literally ?nd yourself stuf?ng your face once 8 pm rolls around, which isn’t always a
nice sight. I also like to keep snacks on me when I’m studying, such as whole wheat
pretzels and cream cheese (SO good, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it).
4. Embrace comfy clothes. Being dressed up while studying isn’t always the best
feeling, especially when you’re getting closer to your 6th hour on Lau 3. Rock those
sweatpants and t-shirts, or try a white v-neck, jeans and lo-tops/ballet flats (my daily
uniform). I carry a sweater and a scarf (haven’t worn them as much because of the
crazy DC weather) in case it gets cold.
5. Have fun. Usually fun and midterms don’t go together, but give it a shot. Make some
time to get together with friends or do something that you want to do. Reward yourself
with a little trip down to M Street, baking, or if you have the time, going out.
Halloween is right around the corner people!
6. Try to stay calm. Freaking out does not help in the least bit. I can tell you that from
experience. Just try to breathe. I know, easier said than done, but it helps in the long
run.
7. For the love of god, do not cram. I find myself guilty of trying to do too many things
at once, but try studying for your midterms at least a few days in advance. It’s much
better to truly understand the material, rather than just memorize things. Tests in
college are on a whole different level than high school, and it can be a big
adjustment. Try your hardest, and it’ll pay off compared to you not trying enough.
So on a final note, drink some venti Starbucks concoction and listen to 22 by T. Swift,
and I’m sure you’ll be just fine.. If not, we always have finals…
Photo courtesy of thegeorgetowndish.com