Midterms are right around the corner and every college student is starting to feel the pressure. From personal experience (more like past mistakes) and other students’ anecdotes, I collected what I believe are the most important tips to beat pre-exam anxiety and succeed on your tests and papers.
1. Do not procrastinate
This is the first and most important tip. We are already two weeks away from midterms, which means that if you have not started studying, you already began procrastination. KEEP CALM, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE.
Starting to study for midterms or writing a paper two days before the due date will most likely lead to stress and poor performance. Take action now.
- Prepare study guides.
- Plan your pre-exam time wisely: create a schedule with study sessions and stick to it. Plan it so that you can have enough time to be done at least two days before the due date. Also, if you know you will need help with the material plan in advance to visit your professor’s office hours (include this in your schedule). This way you will be able to review for the exam and solidify knowledge. In the case of a paper: it will give you time to receive feedback from friends or even better to take it to the writing center to be reviewed by a professional.
In case of Emergency tip: if you feel like two weeks will not be enough to cover everything and finish all your papers, it might be a good idea to use the all-nighter . However, It is better to do the all nighter NOW than the day before the actual test.
2. It's okay to ask for help
So many people fear asking for advice, but let me tell you, that is just a common mistake. Giving yourself time to study will also help you assess your weaknesses with the material and find the required help:
Resources for my fellow colonials:
1. Email your TA’s and professors with your doubts or go to their office hours.
2. Writing Center: The writing center is located on the second floor of the Gelman Library. They will even help you brainstorm whenever you are experiencing “writers-block.” You can make an appointment on the website: https://gwu.mywconline.com or visit their drop-in sessions.
3. Tutoring: GWU also offers 10 free hours of one-on-one tutoring each academic year, as well as unlimited group tutoring and drop-in sessions. Drop-in sessions are for math, statistics and economics. You can find more details here: https://diversity.gwu.edu/gw-tutoring-initiative
And remember:
If you feel like this
3. Stay Positive
Negative thoughts will have a direct negative impact in your study time and performance. Do not allow fear to keep you from reaching your full potential and to take valuable time away from you.
You can do this.
Resources for GW students: Whenever you feel you need to talk to someone, it is always a great idea to seek help. GW offers a 24/7 service to students who need to speak to a mental health professional at the Colonial Health Center (CHC). CALL 202-994-5300. You can talk to them about any concern, including pre-exams anxiety.
4. Preparation before the exam
Avoid cramming the night before the exam. Instead, try to get at least 8 hours of sleep, prepare everything you'll need for the test, relax and have a healthy breakfast.
Use your fear to your favor and act now. WE CAN DO THIS!
