Midterm Tips

As the leaves change color and fall break approaches, there is another thing right around the corner: midterms. For the new first-year students who are still adjusting to college and the upperclassmen who have been through a few exam weeks, midterms can be stressful for many students on campus. To reduce the pressure and increase effectiveness, here are a few tips to consider:

1. Plan Ahead

   Procrastination and time management are some of the most critical yet challenging concepts that college students face. As difficult as it is to survive a day, let alone a week, it may be easy to focus only on the very prior assignments. However, looking at the bigger picture and grasping what is to come will benefit more in the long run. Instead of cramming the night before the test, create a thorough study schedule starting now.

2. Ask Questions

   They say the best way to learn is to ask questions. By coming up with questions, you can recognize the concepts you know and don’t know. This will aid in knowing where your current understanding is and what you need to focus on. It may be nerve-wracking to ask questions during class, but if you have a question, it’s likely that another student does too.

   Another way is to make use of office hours. Professors are more than willing to explain things to help you be successful in class. Don’t be afraid to go to their offices (or email). Remember, they won’t know what you don’t know unless you ask first.

3. Study Groups

   Research states that “there is strong scientific support for the benefits of students learning and working in groups. In addition, the research shows that collaborative work promotes both academic achievement and collaborative abilities.” Get a group of friends/classmates together and learn by teaching each other what you understand. This support bond will help you get through challenging courses.

4. Tutoring Center

   Talking of studying together, the Andrews University Student Success Center holds tutoring sessions throughout the week for various courses. The tutors are students who have already completed the course and have been recommended by the professors. As students, they will be excellent guides (providing helpful tips) to help you manage the course from the student's perspective. Find out more at Student Success Center: Tutoring Services.

5. Get a Good Night's Rest

   Did you know that sleep impacts memory? Sleep isn’t just about being relieved from feeling tired; it also deals with one’s learning capabilities. Research shows that long-term memory is established through sleep. So, instead of staying up at the last minute, ensure you are well-rested before entering your classes.

6. Take Breaks

   It might sound tempting to just study for hours on end, but break time is essential. According to a study by the National Institute of Health, the brain replays newly obtained memory while resting after gaining the information; this allows the memory to be strengthened. Just as practice makes perfect, taking proper breaks in between aids that “practice” to help you reach the “perfect” level. Whether it be taking a nap or spending time with friends, giving the brain a little break from all the readings, textbooks, etc., is important. The Andreasen Wellness Center offers free 30-minute 3-D Massage Chair sessions for Andrews Students, so stop by and relax.

7. Exercise

   It might be easy to leave out exercising in such a busy time, but exercise will do wonders for you. Exercise increases endorphin levels, boosting mood and relieving stress, as well as releasing proteins in the brain to help stimulate your memorization. So if you are stressed out and unable to focus, move the body and give your brain a little rest and go for a walk, go to the gym, or take a group session at the Andreasen Wellness Center.

8. Get Proper Nutrition

   Last but not least, proper nutrition is essential. Providing those good sources for the body will be highly beneficial for both your physical and mental well-being and your “cognitive skills like concentration and memory and improve academic performance.” Don’t skip out on meals, and use the cafeteria and Gazebo. Fuel your body to fuel your mind!

Good luck with your studies, and may God’s wisdom be upon you throughout the midterms.