Midterm season seems to come out of nowhere and hit us like a brick. Wasn't the first day of class like two weeks ago? Especially surrounded by exciting events like homecoming and Halloween, midterms can seem totally untimely and impossible to fit into your schedule. As a college student, you're constantly hit with Holy Trinity of S's: School, Social Life and Sleep (and it always seems you can only pick two). But that doesn't even account for the other aspects of university life such as part-time jobs, internships, clubs and organizations, working out to avoid that college weight, homework/studying, love life, volunteering, and even down to eating and bathing (yeah, our schedules are THAT tight). While all these different activities seem like a weight down on your back and a constant decision of which one is more important, it's important to focus on yourself too. Here are some things to keep in mind during Midterm season:
1. Sleep
I know sleep seems like a nostalgic word for most college students but it's so essential in tackling each day with positivity and drive. If you can wake up feeling rested and at peace, that feeling will last through the rest of your day. In turn, avoid over-caffeinating yourself. While coffee is the lifeline for college students, limit your caffeine to two cups a day and don't drink any past 4 p.m. All-nighters are such a no-no. They may seem necessary but you'll be so groggy and tired that most of what you accomplished last night will be washed away with the fogginess that'll ensue the next morning.
2. Indulge
Do something that makes you happy. Buy some new autumn scented candles and enjoy the season while you're inside studying. Find a new album and jam out to it. Cook that yummy-looking Tasty meal. Watch that new episode of "How to Get Away With Murder." Do some yoga. Do whatever it is you need to do to keep yourself calm and relaxed during this hectic time.
3. Decide
While making decisions on what is more important and requires your time and attention can be daunting, it's necessary to help you organize your time proficiently. If you can slide by without reading a couple chapters in preparation for another class's exam, by all means, go ahead. Just make sure to go back and finish whatever it is you put off when you have the time. You might also need to take the L in your social life around this time. You will survive. A week without going out won't kill your semester, while D's on your midterms certainly will.
4. Reach out
If things are super overwhelming for you, talk to your professor on how to better manage his or her classwork with a busy schedule. Professors were students once too, so they know how this all works. Actually try to listen to the advice they give you. After all, they're the ones with your grade in their hands. For the more personal approach, call your mom for goodness sake. Talking to someone who knows you and you can vent to can help you feel less pent up.
5. Celebrate
Once you get through the storm that is midterms, celebrate your victory! It may not seem like much to outsiders, but students understand the mass amount of difficulty one must undergo to survive this week. Celebrate with friends, some drinks, and the few new gray hairs you have but have a great time and remind yourself that you got this.
Good luck to everyone!