By Rafael Moraes Gaino
Hey, Yellow Jackets! How are you doing? Today I’m going to tell you guys a little bit about the midterms and give some tips about it.
Midterms matter in college. They show what students have actually learned during the term. Still, this time can feel intense. That is especially true for student-athletes. They juggle classes, homework, practices, games, and time at home. Because of all of that, midterms can be a lot to manage at once.
To handle it, students should start with a plan. Make a study schedule first. Check the dates for each test. Also, take note how much prep time you need. One simple method is to write down every exam and major task for the week. Then sort your days around those items. Focus on the topics that feel harder or that you keep forgetting. It also helps to study a bit each day. Trying to cram everything the night before can backfire. When students stay organized, they usually feel calmer. They can also walk into exams with more confidence.
Use solid study habits. Reading your notes is not enough. You should practice with questions, go back over key points, and restate what you learned using your own words.
It also helps to study with other students. When you work together, you can trade ideas and clear up confusing parts faster. Still, try to pick a calm spot. Avoid distractions like social media and video games. Put your phone out of reach while you study. That small step can make it easier to focus.
For student-athletes, the work gets more complicated. You have to handle sports and school at the same time. At Defiance College, athletes juggle classes along with practices and games. When midterms come up, they should talk with coaches and professors if they need help fitting everything into a plan. Even during tough training weeks, do not lose sight of grades. Your academic results matter for what comes next. Making a schedule ahead of time can help you keep up with both areas. Midterms can be tough. Still, they can help you grow. If you plan your time, keep up with your work, and look after your sleep and food, you are more likely to walk in feeling ready. As a student-athlete, I see this in my own life. Discipline matters during class. It also matters when I step onto the soccer field. When the week turns stressful, it is easy to lose focus. But you can slow down, keep your goal in mind, trust yourself, and work hard.