As the semester reaches the midterm, UMKC students and professors are tasked with preparing for exams and projects with calendars, to-do lists and studying with friends.
STEM students share that they are beginning to feel the pressure of upcoming exams.
Senior environmental science major, CJ Kreeger, explained she struggles with managing her school work and her personal life.
“I do a lot of studying in any down time I have,” Kreeger said.
Entering her second year as a chemistry major, Sophy Saykally also spends her free time focusing on exams as they approach.
“I prepare for my exams by studying in between classes or during my down time,” Saykally said. “I’m lucky enough to have two on-campus jobs, so I’m able to work on homework then.”
She also emphasized the importance of using the resources provided for her.
“I do the study guides that my professors send out so I can have a better understanding of what’s going to be on the test,” Saykally said.
Associate Teaching Professor of Chemistry, Lena Hoober-Burkhardt, has found techniques to stay organized and support students throughout her six years of teaching.
“I try to be as communicative, transparent and organized as possible,” Burkhardt said. “Assignments are open from the beginning of the semester. I also give practice exams and practice problems to my students.”
Not only does she do her best to provide resources to her students, but she also has techniques to keep herself in order.
“I have a calendar on my computer and my phone that I color code to keep track of my different classes,” she said. “I also have a running To-Do list that I update daily and organize by day or week, so that I can try to keep track of what needs to happen immediately”
For humanities students, exams and projects are also beginning to pile up this time of year.
After taking two years off following her associates degree, history major Natalie Anderson is learning to readjust to her academic career and the increasing pressure of large exams and projects.
“After taking a break it’s a lot to come back, I was in school before Covid so things are more online now,” she said. “As far as projects go, my professors have been amazing. Their instructions are super clear and they make sure to check in with us.”
Each student and professor have unique methods to be successful.
Anderson said having a designated work area and studying with friends are what help her the most.
“I like to go to the MLNC or a local coffee shop,” she said. “I think it’s also important to have a study buddy to keep yourself accountable.”
Kreeger said to stay calm and manage stress she focuses on her hobbies.
“I lift weights, reconnect with nature and [remember] why I love my major,” she said.
Saykally works to accomplish as much as possible leading up to the night of the exam.
“I try to study at least a week before my test so I’m not cramming.” Saykally stated. “The night before tests, I usually try to relax and maybe do a face mask or watch my favorite show so I don’t go to bed stressed.”
Hoober-Burkhardt urges students to organize their time well to be as successful as possible.
“Be as efficient and as effective as possible when studying – what works for one class may not work for another,” said Hoober-Burkhardt. [email protected]
