Serenity Now: Making the Most of a Stressful Season

Exams come and go, but the skills and strategies for handling them last forever.

The end of any semester brings with it the stress of exams, assignments, and final grades — which many of you may be feeling right now. As the weather gets nicer and you begin to think about your summer plans, it's important to maintain your focus on your upcoming exams, and find a way to control and manage any stress you may be feeling. If you don't know where to begin or you're looking for new ways to curb that exam stress, here is a quick guide to a stress-free exam season:

1. Know your studying habits

Everyone has a different way of studying and there's positives to each approach, but you have to figure out what works best for you. Explore different tactics like notetaking, practice tests, or having someone quiz you, and stick to the one that fits you best.

2. Plan it out

Planning provides a guide for action, and can help you achieve your desired outcome. Start with identifying which exams you have, how the marks are distributed, and the content you must know for each one. Naturally, it's impossible know absolutely everything, but this will help you cover as much ground as possible.

3. Don't be afraid to ask for help

The faculty, staff, and services at your school are there to support you, so reach out if you need extra help. At Brock, the A-Z Learning Services team offers drop-in hours, workshops, and tutoring for students not only during exam season but throughout the whole year. Find out what services are available to you and take advantage of them!

4. Look at the bigger picture

It may feel like it in the moment, but exams aren't everything. You'll have gained a wealth of knowledge from each course you're studying, and that will stick with you well beyond your final exam. If you don't get the grade you were hoping for, try to look at the bigger picture and think of how far you've come.

5. Find your calm

In between your studying sessions, it's important to take intentional breaks that help you re-focus. Whether this is going for a walk, listening to some music or a good podcast, or calling a friend — make sure to include it in your schedule.

The most important thing to remember is to take care of yourself! Developing healthy outlets and using these strategies will help you get through this exam season, stress-free.