Test Prep Without the Stress

The Fall 2022 semester is coming to an end, and with final exams fast approaching, it is important to prepare yourself academically and mentally. NC State exams will be administered between Thursday, Dec. 8, and Wednesday, Dec. 14. Whether it is your first or last semester taking exams, preparing can be stressful. As a junior, I still feel overwhelmed with studying, calculating final grades, and taking exams. However, I have found that there are many resources NC State offers to help us balance our stress and unwind.

While preparing for exams, it is essential to keep track of important dates. To make sure you meet your final deadlines and arrive on time for all exams, make yourself a schedule! I prefer to use an agenda; however, you can use a digital calendar on your phone or google. A schedule also allows you to allot specific times to study for different exams. When planning your schedule, try to include time for activities you enjoy, such as going to the gym, grabbing lunch with friends, or watching a movie! While it is important to have structure, it is just as important to give yourself mental breaks and spend time doing things that make you happy.

If you find yourself needing some assistance while studying, contact the NC State Academic Success Center, which offers scheduled and drop-in tutoring sessions. These services are a great resource for gaining a better understanding of topics in which you may need additional support. Additionally, writing consultants are available to provide tips and suggestions that can be especially helpful when writing final essays. Drop-In Wellness Coaching is another fantastic resource. Certified Wellness Coaches are available to discuss any aspect of health, whether that is making a schedule for the week, planning to become more physically active, or just providing overall support.

Lastly, it is crucial that you listen to your mind and body! When preparing for exams, students may experience a significant amount of stress. Therefore, it is important to take care of yourself by getting the proper amount of sleep, eating well, and seeking support when needed. The Wellness and Recreation Center offers group fitness classes which are a great way to get active and relieve stress! The Counseling Center also offers students various mental health services and resources. The NC State faculty, staff, and fellow students are also valuable resources to utilize, especially during the stressful period of preparing for and taking exams.  We are all going through this together, so please remember you are never alone!

According to the NC State Academic Calendar, Reading Days are Tuesday, December 6th, and Wednesday, Dec. 7. These are days for students to prepare for exams and to take care of themselves! After exams, we have a break before we start the Spring 2023 semester, so push through and look forward to a long and well-deserved break. You’ve got this Wolfpack!

This article is by Madison Thomas, a Department of Sociology and Anthropology student ambassador majoring in criminology and minoring law and justice.