Did you know that the 20th of January is said to be the most depressing day of the year? It’s called Blue Monday and it falls in the middle of the exam season this year – great!
Whether it really is or not is questionable, but it can definitely be a tough time. It’s dark, all the holiday decorations are down, and work resumes after the lazy period. And stress. A lot of it. Especially as it’s exam and assessment season for university students!
I remember the joys of getting up at 5:30 am to get to Ali G for 6:30 am to get a desk, queuing in pouring rain for main library to open, with books, folders, notes, lunch and laptop (honestly, sometimes I felt like I took the whole flat with me), ready to smash my studies.
But it was hard to stay motivated, especially in “Rainchester” with its grey skies every day. So to avoid anyone struggling as I did, here is what I’ve learnt in the last 6 years in Manchester.
1) Change is always good, so search new study spaces!
I always felt the most motivated working in main library or Ali G as seeing other students revising motivated me too. Even now during my PhD when I’m writing, I try to go to different places to do it as it helps me focus better when I’m not sat at the same desk. Maybe try a café? Central library? Or you could book a room somewhere on campus and study with your course mates together.
2) Get mindful
My favourite part of every exam season (I can’t believe I’ve actually typed this) is mindfulness workshops. I used to go every day (even if I was finished with exams that day). These sessions taught me how to properly breathe and calm my brain – and the good news is they’re also run throughout the year, so even if your exams are coming to an end you can learn the techniques anytime.
3) Don’t ignore emails from your school
They may have some information on what your department is doing for exam season. Maybe they offer free breakfast? Some arts and crafts? You could also visit student hubs as those places are super well stocked with loads support and stress-busting activities: From pop-its and slime to board games and jigsaws (gosh, I found the beauty of doing jigsaws after exams as it’s such a manual hands-on relaxing hobby that Ido one every semester!)
4) How about yoga or tai chi? Maybe Zumba?
Sporticipate is great as not only you can do something different and active, but also, they are free.99! Check out their schedule here. Oh, and they also do sessions on zoom if you are not in Manchester. Although there’s a dedicated exam timetable they also un sessions throughout the semester.
5) Lastly, and most importantly, don’t struggle on your own
You most probably have heard this before, but I’m just reiterating that you shouldn’t feel alone in these stressful weeks. Don’t be ashamed of asking for help, if you feel that something’s not right – ask your friends, family, academic advisors or, if needed, seek counselling services or other University support. One year I got so stressed for my exams I started crying as soon as I saw the paper and there was a question I didn’t know how to answer (even though I spent two weeks revising for that exam). I rang counselling immediately, sobbing my way into getting an appointment. And I got assigned a long course of workshops on controlling my stress levels. It helped so much! I stopped panicking before exams and not only did results improve, but I felt calmer tackling all my academic work.
And remember, if you see anyone struggling around you, have a chat with them and support each other!
Good luck with your exams and assessments!