Written by Megan Greenspan, Edited by Dom Moreno, Graphics by Lorissa Olson
As inevitable as ever, we NAU students have one thing standing in our way before spring break: Midterms. As daunting and stressful as they may seem, we here on the Transfer Jacks Blog Team want to help you get through these exams and projects unscathed, through keeping your overall health and wellbeing in check, as well as some study tips by our seasoned veterans (aka your lovely Transfer Jacks mentors). With that, here are some of our favorite spots, must-haves and hacks to get you through!
Tip #1: The Study Spot
One of the best things you can do to help you prepare for your midterms is to know what type of environment you work best in. Whether that be the silent confinement of your dorm or private study room, the soft ambiance of a classroom building or coffee shop, or the screeching sounds of your favorite hard rock metal band live in concert, knowing the environment you function best in is the key to a productive study session. Some on-campus favorite places (as provided by some of our lovely mentors), are listed below:
- Cline Library – Various types of study atmospheres from private rooms, group sessions, ambient atmospheres and a coffee shop for that little pick-me up throughout the day!
- Second Floor of the Student Academic Services Building – A nice quiet place on campus that is filled with comfy chairs, vending machines, and private study rooms in order to get your grind on.
- Third Floor of the Health and Learning Center – A nice space with a coffee shop, and a lovely view of the mountains to help encourage peace and serenity in this stressful time.
- The Transfer Jacks Lounge – If you’re ever in the mood for a little more social atmosphere, then the lounge could be your place to be! With printers, hot chocolate, and a cozy corner, this could be your perfect place! (Highlight: You may run into some of your favorite mentors)
Tip #2: The Study Materials
Having the right materials on hand is the best way to stay productive and organized throughout your study session, and even before going into your exam! Making sure that you always stash a pencil or pen in your bag, an extra phone and/or computer charger, and even a simple set of headphones can be a key part of your success! We asked some of our mentors what their study must-haves were, and here is what they said:
Dom Moreno: “My iPad, nice headphones, and The Emotional Support Water Bottle ™”
Jesus Moreno: “Computer, energy drink, and my cat, Tuna.”
Megan Greenspan: “Caffeine in any way shape or form, my computer and iPad, and a killer study playlist.”
Sasha Lynette: “My computer, my water bottle, an array of colorful highlighters and pens that I probably won’t use but they’re nice to have, and my phone for some study music.”
Tip #3: The Self Care
In times where you might find yourself under more stress than usual, being able to take time for yourself is one of the most important things you can do to promote a positive headspace and overall better experience. Whether that be taking time to see friends and family, getting yourself a silly little treat at your favorite coffee shop, or just giving yourself a night off with a movie, taking time to relax is one of the best things you can do to prepare yourself for your midterms. With that, keep an eye out for some on-campus activities/stress busters put on by other organizations to help promote good mental health!
Final Thoughts
No matter the stress and pressure that you may feel during this time of the year, always remember that midterms are just a time to check your comprehension and understanding of the class and material thus far. That being said, if you don’t do as well as you would have liked, there is still so much time to reevaluate your study habits and make small adjustments in order to finish the semester strong! If you find yourself needing resources or extra support, please feel free to check out these helpful resources below, or get in touch with your mentor to come up with a plan! Until then though, good luck with your midterms! Study hard, practice self care, and remember that we are so close to spring break!