Dear Ethel,
Shit! It’s only two weeks until exams. I’m streeesssssed out. I really don’t know if I’m going to make it. I feel like dropping out.
What can I do?
Y ou’re not alone … exams are really stressful — for some students more than others. It’s really important to look after yourself in the time leading up to, and during, exams.
How you look after yourself is up to you, but here are some suggestions to consider. Start getting to the OUSA Rec Centre for free breakfast. Aside from the fact that it’s FREE, it’s a great way to start your day.
Think about what you need to achieve before your exams. Think strategically: in what subjects is it most important for you to achieve higher marks? Make a realistic schedule for study that reflects what is possible.
Set aside some “top-me-up” time each week. That is time for you to do what you LOVE and what makes you feel great. That might be taking a yoga class, hanging out with a mate, watching reruns of Friends or Dr Who, making brownie, eating chocolate brownie, running … whatever does it for you. But this time has to be sacrosanct, i.e. NOTHING can interfere with it!
Eat well: plenty of fruit and veg, carbohydrates and protein (good for the ol’ brain). If you can’t afford to eat well, come and grab a food pack from OUSA Student Support.
Student Health run workshops specifically designed to help you cope with exam stress. Check out their website for details on when and where. The Student Learning Centre also has heaps of ideas, tricks and tools to help you manage your time and workload as you head towards exams.
Study with people. Book a room at the library or at OUSA Clubs and Socs and get stuck in collectively. When you’ve done the time you had set aside for study, go and grab a coffee and relax.
During exams, you can pop into Clubs and Socs and score a free sauna or game of squash. And, of course, you can drop into the Student Support Centre at 5 Ethel B any time at all for a whine, a cry, a minor meltdown or some practical support and advice. Whatever you need!