The Observer, February 29, 2008
Volume XL, Issue 19
Top 10 Ways to cope with midterms
It is a universal truth that bad things happen all at once. Murphy's Law, anyone? For the college student, this typically means many midterms at once. This will seem impossible, resulting in late night breakdowns, caffeine addiction, and lack of sleep. There are ways to handle the stress of midterms, and work in general. Here are the top 10 ways to deal with the stress of midterms.
10. Pre-plan. Before you begin to start studying, write out everything that you need to do. If all your work is laid out in front of you, it will turn into a checklist, instead of a constant strain on your mind.
9. Organize. It's always a good idea to keep notes and old tests or papers in order, but the one thing needing to be organized the most is your room. Keeping a clean space around you will help calm your mind.
8. Spread it out. Trying to cram it all in one day is never a good idea. Try to pick a subject per day to study. If that is not an option, segment periods of time for one thing so it does not feel like you have to study for everything at once.
7. Focus. The trick is finding what works for you and sticking to it. Whether it is KSL, Wade, a corner in Nord, or your own room, pick a space and set up shop. Surround yourself with a space conducive to studying, and focusing will be that much easier.
6. Meditate. Case offers meditation on Fridays in the Health Services building at 3:30 p.m. I went with a friend to check it out, and not surprisingly, all the other students there were stressed and needed a way to release some bad energy. It was helpful in learning how to calm down and relax for a bit.
5. Exercise. Besides the much-needed endorphins, exercise helps facilitate sleep, and helps if you are sick. Going even twice a week for an hour to Veale for some cardio will help your body and mind feel at ease.
4. Eat balanced meals. Once in the midst of 24/7 studying, it is all too easy to skip meals, and survive off of coffee and cigarettes, with the occasional bowl of cereal or granola bar. Try to get at least one or two balanced meals in during the worst of it, and choose smart snacks for studying. Nuts, fruit, and string cheese are healthy and full of protein to help you keep pushing through without going crazy.
3. Sleep. Theis is a basic bodily function, people, and without it, our bodies will suffer. Naturally, I am not one to talk, but even when you absolutely cannot sleep, try to get a nap in during the day when you have an hour or two to spare.
2. Counseling. Sometimes the stress of it all is too much to handle alone. Friends are great to talk to, but students sometimes need a bit more help. Case has counseling services where you can talk to a therapist. Being able to talk to someone can result in a sense of relief, and may lead you in the right direction.
1. Deep breaths. If all else fails, feel free to remind yourself that in two weeks, we have spring break. With a light at the end of the tunnel, it makes the now and now more manageable. Take a deep breath, and remember that better things will come.
