This past week we had multiple exams, including clinical laboratory diagnosis and physical diagnosis. When reviewing for exams, I find that the best strategy is to form a study plan, so that I am able to lessen the feeling of being overwhelmed as much as possible. For example, I review all of the lectures for a future exam, and write a note to myself indicating the lectures that I felt I struggled learning the most. In this way, I am able to dedicate more time to those lectures to ensure I understand them before the exam.

I believe the hardest part of multiple exam weeks in a row is that your family and friends do not understand the time commitment for studying. During the weekends, my husband always wants to do something fun, especially since the weather is nice. On weekends like this though, where there are multiple exams the following week, I utilize most of my time to study. In order to not burn out though, it is important to find time even for a few hours of fun each weekend! For example, last weekend, I went raspberry and strawberry picking with my husband and some friends. After that, I baked some strawberry bread and watched a scary movie with my friend. Although the exams were in the back of my mind, I knew that it was best for my mental health to take a break for a few hours to enjoy life and rejuvenate!

I cannot believe that we are about to start week 11 of the trimester, and that final exams are right around the corner. As all of us begin to stress and study for final exams, it is important to take some time daily to relax and unwind, as a calm brain will perform better on exams!

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