With a successful first full month of classes now completed, Wright State University students know what is ahead– midterms. But students should be careful to not fall into the endless loop of stress, study and repeat.
Midterms
With the Fall 2025 semester beginning on Aug. 21 this year, October is officially midterm season. In between countless hours of studying for tests and writing essays, students commonly forget how to do one thing: take a breath and de-stress.
For those who are new to college, or to prioritizing self-care, there are a few strategies that may help.
Even for those who have already completed midterms, these tips may help with future exam study sessions.
Prioritize study breaks
This never-ending cycle of stress can be broken within studying by adding just small breaks. Studying for long periods of time can actually be counterproductive to efficiency. These long chunks of time can lead to more mental fatigue than concepts learned.
Many studies show that one of the most effective ways to study is The Pomodoro Method. This method prioritizes shorter intervals of learning mixed with even shorter breaks. Commonly, these intervals allow five minutes of rest for every 25 minutes of studying. For every five intervals of work, a longer 15-minute break is recommended.
Maria Alexander is a project management expert who spoke on the topic of breaks.
“The 25-minute work intervals help you maintain a high level of concentration without feeling overwhelmed, while the five-minute breaks provide an opportunity to rest and recharge, which prevents mental fatigue and burnout,” Alexander said.
Allowing yourself to take timed breaks can help relieve some of the stress that comes with studying.
Take time for your hobbies
It is easy to neglect your hobbies during these times of stress, but it is important to still take time for yourself and what you enjoy.
Kelsey McPherson is a nursing student at WSU who makes sure to take time for herself when she needs it.
“I turn on my favorite show, Grey’s Anatomy, and take an episode-long break when it feels like I can’t study anymore,” McPherson said.
There are plenty of shows available online, both for free and with fees, depending on the streaming service. You can also indulge in your hobbies, or simply take a rest.
Sometimes you just need to sleep, as was shared by Bree Montgomery, a psychology student in her senior year at WSU.
“When I am feeling overwhelmed, I plug in my candle warmer and take a nap,” Montgomery said. “It helps me reset.”
Utilize campus resources
Wright State University offers a variety of resources that many students find particularly helpful during midterms. These include: the Math Learning Center, Supplemental Instruction (SI), Peer Academic Coaching, Tutoring services and the University Writing Center.
“I go to every SI session that I can, even if I feel like I don’t need it.” McPherson said. “The extra practice surrounded by others also studying for the same exam has helped my test scores a lot.”
Midterms can be stressful, but the time can be made better. Remember that putting yourself first and finding a balance is key. Take time to relax, enjoy your hobbies and use WSU's academic resources to help you succeed.
