It’s that time of the semester again. As you gaze with half-opened eyelids at the intimidating accumulation of textbooks, papers and empty Starbucks cups on your desk, your heart feels heavy. After hours of studying for your 300 level classes, you can barely remember the names of dead guys you are supposed to be learning about, let alone recall any snippet of useful knowledge. (Maybe we shouldn’t watch Chuck Testa on YouTube.) More detrimental than the Freshman 15, more frustrating than writer’s block, midterm week is about as welcomed by college students as a stuffed deer. (Nope, Chuck Testa.)
If you’re up studying at 3 a.m. on a Tuesday, there’s either a problem or you are just that dedicated. This isn’t Friday — you know you don’t want to be awake right now.
As easily contagious as procrastination may be, it is not a desirable route to choose during midterm week. A much safer and less sleep-depriving alternative is at your fingertips. Hayden Library will be filled with students all day who are equally as anxious and on edge as you are.
If this doesn’t sound inviting, remember we live in Arizona — which isn’t exactly teeming with the nightlife of New York City.
But the Northeast can keep their cold weather. Beautiful weather and welcoming outdoor seating is plentiful, and a spot next to the Memorial Union provides easy access for a Jamba Juice break, or two or six.
However, I would steer clear of bringing your textbooks to the Vista del Sol pool. We all know that is way too distracting; besides, how will you pass that chemistry test with H2O all over your notes?
A healthy diet is crucial when conquering the beast that is midterms. I will be the first to admit to a steady diet of macaroni and cheese and frozen yogurt. (ASU takes their “froyo” very seriously — it’s unavoidable.)
However, healthier options are accessible. Instead of feeding both your stomach and brain a buffet of carbohydrates and preservatives, consider all the alternatives here at school. Fruits, ramen (OK, maybe that’s not healthy), sandwiches and salads are all good choices. And to replace coffee, there is always Redbull. (Remember, it gives you wings. Get away from midterms by flying to Southern California.)
Engrained Café, located on the second floor of the MU, is the epitome of good “midterm food.” With organic and delicious food, Engrained will give you the energy needed to memorize countless statistics formulas. It’s conveniently located in the MU, so there is really no excuse to opt for Taco Bell.
Of course, there are other timeless and relevant ways to get through midterms. Study groups with friends, constant supplies of coffee and tutoring are all common strategies. From personal experience, I suggest taking small study breaks when rational. I recommend sources of mindless humor to provide compensation for the abundance of brain activity. College Humor, awkwardfamilyphotos.com and TV shows such as Community and old classics “Boy Meets World” and “Saved By The Bell” are some solid outlets.
However, I would still steer clear of all MTV reality shows. You don’t want to actually terminate existing brain cells. That’s for after the exams.
Contact Isabelle at inovak@asu.edu
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