How to Thrive (and Not Just Survive) During Exam Week
‘Tis the season… for final exams. Perhaps not the jolliest way to start off December, but with a little bit of prep and a positive mindset, you can set yourself up for success. Just in case you still want some support after a semester of diligent note-taking (riiight?), we’ve rounded up helpful tips to get your head (and your body and heart!) in the game.
Get Organized
Maximize your study time by mapping out the week ahead. It may feel silly, but an hour-by-hour schedule that breaks up subjects into 1-2 hour chunks can help you stay on track without getting fatigued.
Sprucing up the space around you so that it’s free from distracting clutter can improve focus (and makes a nice downtime activity when you need a break). Make sure you have all the materials you need at your fingertips, and if you’re still feeling frantic, reserve a space in the library!
Visit the OAAR
The Office of Academic & Accessibility Resources (OAAR) offers a wide array of academic and disability support services, not just during exam time, but ALL the time. See them about getting a tutor, managing your college schedule, or visiting the writing center.
Get a Move On
Okay, now is not the time to see if you can bench your own body weight, but you should make time to move around, in whatever way makes you feel connected to your body. Take a walk, hit the gym, do some yoga, dance around, or check out one of the great classes we offer for free in the AFC. It’ll be a much-needed energy boost and a welcome break from the books!
Don’t Forget the Small Stuff
When you’re wrapped up in theoretical concepts, it can be easy to forget the little things. Make sure you’re not disrupting your normal sleep and hygiene routine for the sake of studying—that means getting a full night’s sleep, brushing those teeth, and caring for yourself and your space as usual…or maybe even more so. Pro tip: wear your favorite outfit to your exam; it’ll give you a confidence boost!
Study Smart
Know thyself. Are you a night owl or an early bird? Schedule time for your toughest subjects when you’re at your best. Are you a team player or a lone wolf? Get a study buddy, or knock it out of the park on your own!
Tailor your study strategy to suit your needs, too. Don’t waste time making flashcards if you don’t learn from them, or pour over readings when making an outline would help you better retain information. Not sure what works for you? Start studying early and try a bit of everything!
Don’t pull an all-nighter. It’s important to take breaks to refresh and recharge. Try playing a game for a few minutes, tidying up your workspace, or doing one of the activities suggested here.
Dine Discerningly
When the going gets tough, it’s easy to reach for comforting foods that might be calorie-rich but nutrient-deficient. Try to balance your diet with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies (some of them grown right on our Eden Hall Campus!), and avoid late-night snacking. Watch your caffeine intake too—Café Rachel may be open late, but too much coffee will disrupt your sleep schedule, leading to a crash later on.
Get Out(side)
Yes, we know it’s cold. But even a few minutes outside can help you realign, boosting your mood and your energy, and there’s still plenty of beauty to be found on campus, even in winter. If it’s sunny out, wrap up warm and do some reading outside or near a window to soak up all the Vitamin D you can.
Check In With Friends… and Yourself
Let’s be real: exams can be a lightning rod for all kinds of stress. Checking in with your friends is a great way to not only ensure they’re doing okay, but to feel good about yourself by offering help. Study together, take breaks together, and most importantly, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t isolate yourself! Talk to friends, family, or make an appointment with counseling services. Everyone at Chatham wants you to succeed!
