As we approach the end of the semester, stress levels rise even higher than where they usually reside. There are papers, projects, and exams flying at us like crazy with very little time for us to complete them. Even though I am an EMAC major, considered by some to be “EZ-MAC,” I am not an exception to this rule. I will admit that for some classes I am one of those people who spends more time calculating what grades I need to get on homework, exams, and projects to get the final grade I want in the class than I do actually studying and working.
However, from past experiences, I can tell you that it is a terrible habit to fall into. You should study like you need a 100 percent to pass the class, so when you get an 88 percent rather than the 72 percent you figured you would need, you feel relieved, especially that you didn’t have to randomly guess on tests.
I’m not saying to tell yourself you need 100 percent on all your exams; that is certainly not the case. If there is a class you are doing particularly well in, allocate a little less study time for that course and give the time to a class where you are having the most difficulty. I’m merely reminding you that every class is important as another. But for your own sanity’s sake, spend more time studying than calculating grades. It will help you in the long run. Plus, a lot of professors curve at the end of the semester, and then all your time spend on those calculations was wasted.
Also, in these last few weeks before final exams, don’t forget about those last-minute assignments and final projects due the last day of class. Get a head start on them now, so you aren’t cramming everything into one week and scrambling about to get them done. Last year I ran into that situation and all the stress I had made me sick the next week, the first week of my summer vacation. I was anything but pleased with myself, and I vowed to be better organized for my final projects and exams this year, thankfully, I am. Projects due in two weeks are being started now, material for final exams is being organized for easier reviewing later, so as to not take time out of my study days just to collect the information to be studied, and less important things are being placed on the backburner.
However, don’t skip one class to do work for another. You may miss important information, like a change in exam date, time, or place. In the past, I know people who have missed bonus point assignments for one class to work on minor assignments for another. This time of year especially, those bonus points will come in handy. It can alleviate some stress about getting a really bad grade on an exam earlier in the year.
Even if your professors are adamant about never giving “extra credit,” missing material that is going to be on the final exam isn’t a good idea because it will just add to the amount of things you will need to learn by yourself beforehand. I’m sure we all know that time is money, and no one likes to waste money. (Although, if you are one of the crazy people who likes to waste money, I’m accepting donations!)
Don’t spend all your time working on schoolwork, though. Go out and enjoy some of the sunshine and warmth that has miraculously found its way to Troy. Besides, all work and no play sucks.
