Defeat that exam stress with your VP Community!
To those who are panicking over the exam period, I want to say a few things that have helped me back when I was a student (apart from the typical eat well, get enough sleep, and finding out what revision techniques work best for you, but your personal circumstances may mean these things are really tricky to do!)
Firstly, I would recommend telling friends and family or someone you trust if you are stressed. If you are not comfortable doing this, university staff such as your personal tutor could help. Trying to remain your normal self around others when you’re actually stressed may actually double your mental load. You then don’t have to pretend to be okay and your circle will be given the power to help you more openly. We all get overwhelmed, and you are no less a capable person for feeling that way.
Secondly, speak with a staff member on your course about what your options are if you don’t get the results that you want. There is likely to always be a plan B you can follow and knowing that it isn’t the end of the world if you don’t achieve the grade you want can put you in a stronger position mentally and help reduce the pressure you may have on yourself.
Finally, give yourself something to look forward to after your exams. For me, I planned to buy a new game I was holding off playing until after I finished all of my assessments. Why do I suggest this? When you’re under pressure it can be very difficult to think of the bigger picture because your mind is trying to solve problems that are in the present (Such as is it actually possible to read three five-hundred page books in a week?) so knowing there is something positive on the horizon can help curb that feeling of gloom. No matter the result, you still should reward yourself for all of the hard work you put in.
Good luck everyone and remember, your worth is not based on your grade.
Watch the video below for more tips and to understand how stress works.
Your VP Community,
Megan Hill.
