10 Ways To Survive Exam Week

We asked some of our study experts around campus for advice on preparing for exams and tips to stay sane. Take heed!

1. Don't skimp on Zzzs.

Lindy Rodman

Grab a power nap (preferably at home) and then stake out a study space in Cabell, open 24 hours a day most days during exam season.

2. Scream it out.

Ram ExScream is an annual exam tradition of getting your frustration out the old-fashioned way. T-shirts, snacks and exam kits are handed out to the first few hundred of students who attend.

3. Find strength in numbers.

Lindy Rodman

Study in groups. Book a room in the library, invite some classmates, and have a review session. Reserve early, online and often for the library’s group study rooms, which fill fast.

4. Fuel your body and brain.

Lindy Rodman

Eat good-for-you food. Load up on fruits and veggies and hydrate with the right fluids. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Your concentration and memory will thank you.

5. Use campus support systems.

Make use of campus resources—Supplemental Instruction from peers who have mastered the course; the Campus Learning Center with scheduled and drop-in tutoring; the Writing Center can help you formulate ideas for written exams and teach you how to really layer your thoughts into a well written paper.

6. Pet therapy is a real thing.

It’s proven that petting a dog will make you more relaxed and optimistic. The VCU therapy dogs will be back at the Commons on Tuesday, December 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Paws for Stress.

7. Exercise to energize.

Lindy Rodman

Go to the gym, or for a bike ride, or for a walk by the river. Don’t cut out your regular workouts even if you are feeling time pressured. Exercise is one of the best forms of stress relief.

8. Stress doodle!

Find a free whiteboard and a set of markers and draw your end-of-semester angst. The VCU library becomes an unusual art gallery around this time of year.

9. Ask for help.

Beating your head against a wall trying to understand something? Visit your professors' office hours with specific questions about the material or ask a librarian. They can quickly point you to materials that might help you better understand your own notes or your textbook.

10. Check the final exam schedule.

Make sure you know when and where all your exams are. Good luck!