Exams already?

I swear the semester just started!  What do you mean we have exams already?

Your first exams as a transfer student can certainly feel daunting but you’ve got this. Here are some quick tips to make it a bit easier on you.

Tip 1. Start Studying early- General spaced repetition is much better than cramming. This can help prevent you from resorting to copious levels of Celsius and all nighters. This also allows you to realize where your gaps are and get some help. 

Tip 2. Try some resources -Penji tutoring sessions, PRIME (for chemistry courses), office hours and TA office hours. Penji offers free tutoring sessions that can be very helpful for your first exams. Tutors will also often have insight to the kinds of questions that may be asked on your exams. PRIME is a helpful student-run organization for General Chemistry 1 and Organic Chemistry 1 classes. That being said, your professor’s office hours and TA office hours are some of the most valuable resources. Many times during the professor’s office hours I have found gaps in my knowledge that I would not have figured out on my own. TAs have frequently seen the exam and are willing to help lead you in the right direction in studying. 

Tip 3. Find your zone and lock in – Finding a spot that keeps you distraction free and productive can be a game changer. Some students find it helpful to use white boards to reiterate knowledge and summarize topics. Other students may benefit from study spots that are silent. 

Often students choose study spots such as Swem, ISC, Sadler Slice, academic buildings, or cozy coffee shops such as Aromas. 

Tip 4. Form a study group – Forming a productive study group can help hold you accountable, review the material and reveal gaps in your knowledge. In the past I have with my study groups gone through lecture slides and made mini presentations, I found this helpful.

Tip 5. Don’t neglect your mental health – finding time for rest and relaxation before an exam is almost as important as the actual preparation. The school provides many outlets for student stress relief such as therapy services at the health and wellness center, corgi therapy dogs, free FitWell classes such as yoga, and acupuncture services. 

No matter how your exams go, its all part of your journey and know that I am rooting for you!