People say the quarter system goes fast, but you have no idea how fast until you experience it. I feel like I just moved in, but we’re already on Week 5! You know what that means? Midterm season!! Woohoo! I actually had my Bio 93 midterm two weeks ago because I have two midterms for that class and I’m cramming for my Chem 1A midterm tomorrow. Keep reading to hear about my crazy midterm experiences!
People have different ways with dealing with midterms. I have friends I haven’t seen since midterm season started because they’re always studying or others just nap through the whole day. Personally, I study in the common room in groups because my loft desk is too dark. (A loft desk is under a bed with only a top bunk so the lights don’t really reach it.) But regardless, midterms mean long late nights of studying (or messing around…).
Midterms destroyed my sleeping schedule. I usually go to sleep around 3 AM and wake up at 8 AM to study. Sounds insane right? Honestly, I’m impressed too because I used to sleep a solid eight to nine hours but my body got used to it. Also, I’m on some alternative clock now because once when I was studying with friends, my friend left to go to sleep. I said “It’s still early!” thinking it was eight, but it was actually midnight. Oops.
But no worries, I have tips for midterms! The first one is to find a study group. Work through the material yourself first and then work with friends to clarify concepts you don’t understand. Bouncing ideas off others and talking through concepts help to understand it. (Tip: If you can explain it to someone else, you know it really well!) Review practice exams because they are super similar to the actual midterm, trust. Review the lecture slides because if your professor took time to go over it in class, it’s important and will probably be on the test. Another thing I did to really make myself focus was delete Facebook and Instagram on my phone because they’re way to distracting for me. I can’t handle endless scrolling, I’ll be there for hours. It’s a little drastic, but so effective.
I can’t stress self care enough! Make sure to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally! You should be your first priority. Take breaks to destress by walking around Middle or Mesa at night. It’s super refreshing to just walk around in the fresh air. Or take advantage of late night and grab something to eat to destress! Make sure to know your own limits and say no to going out if you know you need to study. I love to Facetime my friend at UCSD to catch up because it’s so comforting keep old friendships strong.
Hang in there everyone! Midterms are almost over and I believe in you!