It’s that time of year where students are laying in their beds, watching three seasons of Walking Dead, knowing that they should be studying but still… never really quite getting to it. Exams can be stressful, but here are a few strategies that you can use – even before you start University – to make finals at least a little bit less painless!
1. Keep up with the work.
This is probably the best, #1, (almost) unfailable way to make exams easier. By keeping up with notes in class and with the readings, you’ll have a lot less to learn come finals period. All you will need to do is read over your notes, memorize key points, and not need to learn everything in two days! Of course, this is easier said than done, but even just trying to keep on track makes a huge difference.
Keep in mind that everyone takes notes and keeps updated on readings a little differently. Some of my classes I prefer to take notes on my laptop – like the one shown below – some classes I like to write on paper. Find out what’s best for you and the specific class!
2. Find a good place to study.
Whether it’s on the first or fourth floor of the library (social study areas), the second or third floor (quiet study areas – you can hear a pin drop in there), in your bedroom, living room, in a coffee shop (the Study on campus is a great spot), or elsewhere, find what suits you! Setting yourself up with a yummy cup of coffee or in comfy clothes can help a lot, too!
My all-time favourite place to study is on my bed. I have a whole ton of pen stains all over my bedspread… but it’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make!
3. Use your resources.
Many of my professors offer additional resources to further your learning. Don’t just rely on what they teach in class or show in the textbook. One of my professors actually posts videos on Desire 2 Learn (our online course system) showing him teaching concepts on screen! It’s an awesome way to learn and review before the exam. I find that almost all of my professors do things like this – and it is SO helpful!
You can also find helpful tutorials on YouTube – here is one of my favourite channels.
4. Help yourself.
I’ll admit to you guys that this semester has not been easy – stress wise – for me. Luckily, I found some amazing resources at Lakehead that I find truly invaluable. About a month ago I had a seizure during my midterm, and was told to register with Student Accessibility Services. The staff in this office are phenomenal. Now I am able to write my exams away from my class, and when I need to seize (or have a panic attack, even just take a little break) they stop my time and allow me to rest. This is extremely advantageous to students like me who have conditions like anxiety and seizures – as well as those with physical and learning disabilities – to be able to be do their best. If you have a condition like me and you think that you may require accommodation, I highly suggest speaking with them. They are flexible, kind, and more than understanding. By allowing me to do my exams in a different manner, I find a lot of my stress has dissipated and I’ve been given the tools to do my very best.
5. Be calm.
Trust me, I know it’s easy to freak out. I had a good month of severe stress because I was worried over one exam… but with the reminder that the holidays are soon upon us and I’m only 4 finals away from freedom… well, let’s just say it’s a great incentive!
6. De-stress.
Whether its an ice skate on Lake Tamblyn, catching a movie with friends, or enjoying some quality time with Wolfie…
…have some fun! University can be stressful, but it can also be a lot of fun, too!
Lakehead Saradise 