To Cram or Not to Cram?

Hey Bloggers!

I can't believe it's already October and we made it through a month full of classes already. This fall semester is flying by quickly and don't get me wrong, I don't mind it. However, before we know it, it will be time for midterms. Are you ready? I don't know about all of you, but I am one to stress and worry, so I am far from ready.

As you can tell, I am into being in a relationship, but I am also all about keeping my grades up. I am typically an A/B student so I like to set my priorities high. Here is my dilemma: during midterm week this semester, it will by my boyfriend's birthday as well as our two year mark and I wan't to make sure that I put a lot of time into studying, but I wan't to make him happy as well. Here is what I would suggest doing if any of you, get put in a school vs. relationship situation:

• Set time to study: When I have an exam to cram for I follow tips:
  - Make a study guide with all the essential information that will be on your exam.
  - Study the information for your exam anywhere from four days ahead to three days ahead, because studying too many days before your exam may cause you to over study. Studying the night before may not be enough time for you.
  - Study for a specific amount of time, too long is not always the best thing. Take a break after every hour and come back to it after you have relaxed for about a half an hour.
  - Get a good night sleep the night before your exam..
•  The day of the exam: Here's what to do:
  - Eat a healthy breakfast.
  - Wear a watch so you can keep track of time.
  - Think of something else or listen to music before your exam.
  - Have a clear mind going into the exam.
  - Arrive to your class early so you can have extra time to study over all the material.
  - Try breathing and meditation exercises to relax yourself during your exam.
  - Place a small pencil mark next to the questions you weren't sure of so you remember to go back.
  - Reread your exam and your answers and look for mistakes that you may have made.                                     
  These steps and tips may not be effective for everyone* 
• The relationship scenario: Here's the deal:
  - Study for your exam during the week so that you can spend time with your boyfriend/girlfriend on the weekends.
  - Have them be your study buddy, even though it may not be that fun you will still be bonding.
  - Make them feel important; show them how special they really are to you.
  - It honestly depends on the person you or your boyfriend/girlfriend may be.

My exams are important to me and I want to make sure that I ace that exam and am still a reliable girlfriend. Sometimes I don't put school first and I feel that I am becoming more stressed and taking it out on my boyfriend and other people. Therefore, I am going to make a change starting now while I have the chance to before it's cramming time.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: What is one suggestion when it comes to keeping your grades straight and spending time with your best friend or boyfriend/girlfriend?

Sincerely yours,

jersey_girl