Midterm week is here and it's a nightmare, to say the least. Studying for tests, writing essays, and lack of sleep are all rolled up into one or multiple weeks on end. Trying to get through the week is brutal, and if you do not have a mild panic attack during it, you are not human. It's a tough week as a student trying to get through other classes on top of midterms, but there are some ways to help through the difficult times.
1.You have to Study.
Just avoiding the existence of a test doesn't mean it will go away. If you have to study weeks in advance or days, so be it. You cannot just study twenty minutes before a test and expect to get an A. Getting good grades is a lot of work, so remain focused on the prize and if you do, it will pay off.
2. Don't forget to sleep.
Studies have shown that if you study and get a full night's sleep, it will help you. By sleeping enough you will be more focused and less likely to get sick during the week, and you will not fall asleep during the test or other classes. Each time you study and sleep (not on the day of but the night before or nights) it will help you retain what you learned and will be easier when you take the test.
3. Eat Healthy.
By eating healthy during midterm week, it will help in many ways. You will feel better during the week and won't be bloated, and it will help your immune system. By replacing the chips with blueberries or some other healthy snack, you will not feel greasy or dirty. It's midterm and you drink Monster or Rockstar during that week, but be careful and make sure you are taking care of your body.
4. It is okay to have a panic attack/ cry during this week.
It gets the best of everyone. Some will get sick, some will cry, and some will have meltdowns. It is okay, everyone is going through the same thing. If any of these things happen, take a step back. Just go get some food, take a nap or take a little break. Don't overwork yourself to the point where you cannot look at a screen ever again, but know when to take a break. Get up and go for a walk, your studying and test will be there. Having a moment of pure chaos shows that you need to take it slow and focus on what you can control, not on what you cannot.
5. Don't forget to reward yourself.
Midterm week is a stressful week. People get very stressed during that time frame and turn into sleep deprived monsters. If you do feel like you are turning into one of those monsters, it is a good idea to go take it easy. Midterms are always going to be around, so you need to remember to take those moments for yourself. Go get your favorite meal on campus, or take a long shower, or just go to the gym. You need to remember that you will not do your best if you do not take care of yourself.
Midterm week always takes a little bit of our souls each time, but by following the simple 5 tools, you will be okay. Yeah, you might lose half your sleep that week and probably skip too many meals or eat things that you should not eat, but remember to try to take care of your body. If you just listen to it during this week, it will not fail you by getting sick or fat. Best of luck studying.
