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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

With final exam season just beginning to bloom, the backlashes come into effect weeks before you have to sit down for that cumulative exam that seems impossible to finish. The preparation can be draining and leave you feeling like it is the end of the world, but with these tips, you won’t be feeling as drained and will be ready to tackle those exams!

  1. Always have a snack and water on you.

  2. Don’t cram! Start studying for an exam a week in advance so you don’t have to binge study for 12 hours at a time.

  3. Create a daily outline to organize what you want to accomplish for the day.

  4. It is okay to take a break! Find time throughout your day to do something that will give your mind a break. Exercise, cleaning, and cooking are great break-time activities.

  5. If possible, work with a group of friends. Misery loves company, so why not prepare for the most stressful time of year with people that make you happy?

  6. Try using multi-colored pens to organize your notes. The different colors may help with remembering the information.

  7. Don’t become too dependent on caffeine! It is only going to lead to a crash when you need your energy the most.

  8. My own personal 2am rule of thumb: never stay up studying or doing homework past 2am. Nothing productive or efficient happens after that time. Pulling an all nighter can do more harm than good. Sleep is important for retaining information, so don’t forget that solidifying aspect of studying.

  9. Don’t be afraid to go to your professors for extra help or for guidance in preparing for their exam. They are there for you to utilize!

  10. GRADES DO NOT DEFINE YOU! No matter how important the exam is, or the class is to your major or to your application to grad school, it is just a grade. There are so many more other important components that make you, you.

No matter how stressful this time of year may seem, just know that it is not impossible. Utilizing the resources around you and taking advantage of the library and other quiet spots on campus is key. Time management is crucial during this time of the semester, so be sure to stay on top of your work so you aren’t struggling to get everything done all at once. While all of your focus may be on studying and getting those last minute projects finished, don’t forget the essentials. Eating, staying hydrated, sleeping and exercise are vital for being able to stay focused and ready to take on finals. So, while you take care of your studying, don’t forget to take care of yourself. While there are multiple exams to take, there is only one you.

 

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Bianca Nitti

Utica '20

Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.