by KEN WINDER

As we are in the midst of taking exams, here are a few tips for surviving this less than pleasant time of year!

1. Go get some hot chocolate from the café and go sit by the fireplace in the Forum. It can be really nice just to sit and take a minute to regain a sense of purpose, motivation, or calmness. And depending on the time of day, the Forum can provide some much-needed social interaction or introverted alone time.
2. Get some sleep. Honestly, we all believe that pulling all-nighters are the way to go and we laugh at the students that go to bed early. However, getting a good night’s rest will allow your brain to process the information you’ve learned and commit what you’ve taught yourself to long term memory.
3. Set a schedule. What’s even more important than getting sleep is getting consistent sleep. Making a schedule and sticking to it is crucial. In fact, if you set a schedule where you regularly set aside study time and do nothing else during that time, your brain will become more inclined to learn and recall during that time. Talk about making learning easier!
4. “Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt. Remember that during this time that you’re doing your best. If you are constantly comparing yourself to others and are feeling put out by it, then stop. And don’t let others make you doubt your commitments. If you’re only able to study three hours a day, that’s fine. Commit to those three hours and make it worth it but do your best. Don’t let other’s expectations define your success.
5. Put your energy where it matters. In this season, it is crucial we treat our time like it is the most valuable resource in the entire universe. So, invest your time wisely. Don’t spend 7 hours binge watching Gilmore Girls or going out with your friends the day before an exam. You only have so much time so make the most of it.
6. Take care of yourself. You’re useless if you can’t function. Exam stress is tremendous but it doesn’t need to destroy your mental health or hygiene. Remember to take that shower and brush your teeth. To eat better. To destress after a long day with a book or a movie. You don’t have to work yourself to death to achieve impossibly high expectations. Just work hard and be serious about your goals. It doesn’t matter how smart you are, if you don’t work for your goals, you’re likely not going to achieve them.
7. Visit Hutch, the library dog. Even if for a second, petting the furry creature will bring joy to your soul. Unless you’re me and whenever you pet Hutch, he doesn’t acknowledge you and you can feel your soul slowly dying. Fun times!
8. Have fun and blow up this bloody popsicle stand when this is all over. Party like 2016 is going out of style. You may have just rocked/blown four finals but you aren’t defined by these tests. There is always a way to come back or another semester if necessary! Just chill. Breathe. And make room for Santa because Christmas is right around the corner! #Yay