Midterms: the dreadful time where we find ourselves binge-eating junk food, going on endless coffee runs, and crying in the library. Midterms can be a very stressful time for most of us college students, and it becomes easy to not take proper care of over selves. But have no fear! We know how difficult midterm season can be, so we put together a list of things that can help relieve your stress and hopefully better prepare you for your next exam! 

Treat Yourself

It's no secret that caffeine can be your best friend during midterms. So I am here to say, "Yes! Overindulge." Break out those Starbucks /Thomas Hammer gift cards you've been hording. This is what you've been waiting for. If you’re not a huge fan of coffee (I'm not judging) try a healthy smoothie. The fruit and nutrients will keep you feeling energized and full for hours and could be the perfect little push you need!

Be sure to check out College Hill’s insulated cups that will keep your coffee hot or keep your smoothie from melting while you’re stuck in the library for hours. 

Get Enough Sleep

I'm sure you have experienced the time jump that magically happens during midterms. A.K.A 3 A.M. comes around a lot faster now that you are cramming last week’s Biology notes for an exam that is in 5 hours. I'm here to tell you to rest! Get sleep. Take a nap. You deserve it! You need it. Getting enough sleep is crucial for college students and our physical and mental health. Without it, we become sleep deprived which then leads to a lack of concentration and drowsiness. Getting enough slumber is just as important as your study sesh. Trust me. 

Get moving!

Although studying for midterms is important, you also need time for yourself to unwind and de-stress. You can use this time to go for a jog, do some yoga, write in a journal, or take a mini break to hang out with your friends. Walking away from your notes and screen isn't going to be the end of the world. Taking breaks to relax, de-stress and clear your head can make your study time more efficient and effective. Most importantly, you should be spreading out your studying into multiple sessions. Leaving room for breaks in between your sessions will not only help your brain remember information more effectively, but it can improve your concentration and give you more motivation while you are studying! Who doesn't want that?! 

Find a Friend to Study With

Studying with a friend makes it just a little less miserable and it gives you the opportunity to take small breaks and socialize. College Hill pro tip - studying with a friend from the same class you're in makes it easy to help each other on concepts you may not understand or you can just have someone to complain with. Either way, finding a study buddy will make studying easier and more enjoyable!

Plan a Post-Midterms Reward

This reward can be as small as going out to dinner and drinks with a group of friends or to a weekend ski trip in the mountains. Whatever interests you most, having an incentive to look forward to after midterms are over is enough motivation to work hard right until the end.

During midterms it becomes easy to let bad habits take over and not care about your physical and mental well-being. By following these simple steps, you can reduce the amount of stress that comes along with midterms. Be sure to check out College Hill for customizable notebooks, exercise products, computer accessories, and other items that are necessary for a successful week (or more) of midterms.

Thank you for reading! Good luck on your midterms!