Navigating exam season: Effective study strategies for college success

As college students navigate the complexities of higher education, mastering effective study habits is essential for academic success. The demands of coursework can often feel overwhelming, and balancing school work with extracurriculars and other things can seem tedious.

Whether you're a freshman adjusting to college life or a seasoned upperclassman, having a consistent study routine will help students achieve their academic goals.

Kaitlyn Richards, coordinator for the Learning Assistance Program at SEMO, said that the main way to set yourself up for success is to set aside time every week to review your classwork.

“Prioritizing a time when you can sit down and study every single week is going to be the best bet, so you are not as anxious, you’re not as stressed out, you’re not trying to cram things in at the last minute,” Richards said.

Establishing a consistent study routine can significantly alleviate academic pressure, but it’s equally as important to know what help is available to students on campus.

Richards said that a great resource for students to utilize if they are struggling is the Learning Assistance Program.

“The Learning Assistance Program in general is a great resource. We try to take a holistic approach to helping people with their courses. What that means is that we focus on building those better study habits, building better time management skills, building note-taking skills, things like that. We try to help from the ground up, and then we can get into the more course specific things,” Richards said.

The Learning Assistance Program, located on the fourth floor of Kent Library, provides one-on-one tutoring with learning assistants who have already passed the courses.

Richards stated they are working on launching a new program called College Success Seminars.

“We also have something we’re launching that's fairly new this semester, called College Success Seminars. Each College Success Seminar has a different topic. So we have one over study skills, and then another one over taking tests, and another one over psychological balance,” Richards said.

These seminars aim to provide invaluable support for students seeking to enhance their study skills and academic performance. However, even with these supports in place, many students still face feelings of anxiety when it comes to exam season.

Purdue Global stated that creating a comfortable study environment and avoiding cramming for the test can relieve some of those academic anxieties.

A productive study environment, free from distractions and preferably with natural light, allows for better focus.

Additionally, avoiding late-night cramming sessions can prevent added stress and anxiety.

The transition to college can be daunting, and the pressure of exams can amplify feelings of anxiety. Richards advised students, especially those experiencing their first exam season, not to be afraid to ask for help from your professors.

“Talk to your professors, talk to your friends, talk to people who are further along in the program. As much as it is intimidating sometimes to speak to professors, the vast majority, especially at SEMO, really do want the students to not only succeed, but thrive,” Richards said.

Developing effective study habits and strategies for exam preparation is essential for achieving academic success in college. By prioritizing regular study sessions and utilizing campus resources, students can enhance their learning experiences and reduce academic anxiety.

With dedication and the right strategies, students can not only succeed at their exams, but foster a deeper understanding of the material that will benefit them throughout their academic career.