During midterm week, students across campus are balancing academics, wellness and personal routines to stay on track. Many shared that time management, mental health awareness and self care help them navigate one of the busiest weeks of the semester.
Source: Caroline Davino, Staff Writer and Photographer
Senior Sofia Vergona, a psychology major and mental health chair for Zeta Tau Alpha, said she starts preparing at the start of the semester.
“At the beginning of the semester, I go through each class syllabus and fill out my planner with important dates, so I am aware with what is coming up,” said Vergona. “To prepare for midterms, I keep my notes organized, review material regularly, and study well in advance so I am not cramming last minute.”
Students emphasized the importance of mental health alongside academics.
Vergona said stress and burnout can make it harder to retain information. She said she prioritizes breaks and going to the gym to stay focused.
Senior Emily Butler, a Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team (S.W.E.E.T.) Peer Educator, also highlighted the value of balancing study time with wellness.
“One of the best strategies for midterm season is creating a to-do list,” said Butler. “Writing out everything you want to accomplish helps you stay organized and makes time management a lot easier. Plus, crossing things off your list feels rewarding and keeps you motivated.”
Butler said she recommends scheduling intentional breaks, like grabbing coffee or taking a walk.
“Giving your mind a chance to recharge can actually help you study more effectively,” said Butler.
Campus resources such as the tutoring lab, writing lab and Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center remain open throughout the week. Butler said S.W.E.E.T. Peer Educators are available for support, and their most popular event, therapy dogs, is designed to help students relieve stress during exam season.
Dr. James Geisler, executive director of wellness services, said there are signs students should watch for during midterms.
“Warning signs that signal it may be time to pause and prioritize include withdrawing and avoiding exam preparation, neglecting sleep and meals, pushing through without breaks, and struggling to concentrate,” said Geisler.
He added that the Wellness Center offers same-day counseling appointments, in addition to scheduled sessions.
“Be intentional about when you plan to study, where you study, and if you study best alone or with friends,” said Geisler. “Anxiety and stress are common emotions. Acknowledge these emotions as they arise. Most of all, be kind to yourself and remember the benefits of positive affirmations.”
Students also said study spots and “must-haves” help them get through the week. Vergona said she prefers West Campus, where she can grab a coffee before settling in. Butler said she likes Martire classrooms, because they are quiet and reliable for late-night study sessions.
Butler added that every student should have their personal midterm “must-have” to make studying more comfortable. She said that hers is a strawberry refresher and a walk around campus.
Vergona offered advice for students who may feel overwhelmed.
“My advice to other students would be to break your studying into smaller chunks and focus on one task at a time instead of a whole pile of work,” said Vergona. “Creating a schedule, setting realistic goals and celebrating progress as you go is important. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it is forming a study group, having access to a tutor or leaning on a friend.”
Geisler encouraged students not to abandon the routines that keep them grounded throughout the semester.
“Those practices are often what sustain your balance and boost your confidence,” said Geisler.
As midterms continue, students said preparation goes beyond the classroom. Combining time management, campus resources, and wellness can help them succeed both academically and personally.
