Midterms have now passed, and I think it is important to take some time and reflect. This past week, I received a 68% on an exam. When I first received by grade, I was upset because I had spent so much time studying. After looking over my faults, I feel prepared to do better on my next test. As time passes, our classes become more challenging, and so do the exams we take. Finals are inching closer every day, so I have created a list of ways to celebrate academic victories and combat losses.  

Combating Losses  

You may have just bombed an exam you spent all night studying (been there) or had a pop quiz on a book you did not read (also been there) and these experiences can lead to disappointment and stress. Let’s break down some useful strategies you can try after an academic setback to help mitigate negative emotions. 

Reflect on what went wrong.  

There are many reasons (and excuses) we can come up with for why we did poorly, but finding the root of the problem can help. When I did poorly on my exam this past week, I realized it was because I didn’t commit my time to understanding the topic. I could’ve taken advantage of my professor’s office hours, but I did not. Learning from mistakes is a great way to move forward during a tough academic semester. 

Reach out to your professor.  

Your professors are here to help you learn and be successful. By reaching out to a professor, you can receive help understanding difficult topics in a one-on-one setting. Professors may not reach out to you if they don’t know if you need help. After my exam, I reached out to my professor, and she helped me better understand some of the topics I was struggling with.  

Find an outlet for your emotions!  

Some examples to release emotions include working out, journaling, watching tv, and going out with friends! If you feel that you need outside help in managing your emotions, consider some of our campus resources including Magers Health and Wellness Center and the Counseling Center. Getting your body moving at Foster Rec Center on campus is a healthy way to release negativity, and is my personal favorite, too.   

Check out Bear Claw and the Center for Academic Success and Transition  

If this class (or multiple classes) has been continuously difficult, reach out for help from a tutor at the Bear CLAW or a peer mentor or success coach at CAST. Both of these aids are located in the Meyer Library on campus. The Bear CLAW can help tutor students in a variety of classes. The CAST center has multiple success coaches and peer mentors who can help guide you with your academics and create personalized game plans to balance your workload.  

Celebrating Victories  

So, the hard work you put in was worth it! Congratulations! Here are some ways to celebrate your win.  Reflect on what went well. Victories deserve reflection, too. By noting what worked on this exam, we can apply the same strategies next time.  When I do well on a test, I look over what studying methods worked best for me and apply them to my next test.

Go get a treat or a meal. 

Springfield has many popular food options! MSU’s magazine, The Standard, has listed some nearby favorites.  Celebrating with food has been a tradition for hundreds of years, and you can make a tradition of your own! For example, when I do well on a test, I get a fun coffee drink to celebrate. Getting coffee truly motivates me to do well on my tests.  

Take a break. 

Sometimes staying in sounds better than going out. I like movie nights, solo and with friends! An idea for staying in could be having everyone bring a snack and make it an event. Self-care is also a good option when staying in.  

Create a victory board.  

A victory board is an arrangement of achievements that can be crafted or an online setup. My friend currently has her accomplishments from her time at MSU as her laptop wallpaper! She explained that she does this as a motivator. I think incorporating your achievements into your daily life, even if it is just a sticky note on your bathroom mirror, can help inspire you.  

Share the news with family and friends.  

Your hard work should be acknowledged! Calling in to tell your family how things are going, especially if you live far from home, is a great way to stay connected. Sharing your success not only celebrates your achievements but also keeps your support system involved in your journey.  

Takeaways  

• Your test score does not define you as a student.  

• There are multiple forms of support if you need help in class.  

• Find an outlet on campus to help with negative and positive emotions.  

• Reflection is a great idea regardless of the outcome.  

~Samantha Horsch 

(Bio: I am an animal science pre-veterinary major with a minor in equine studies. I am also completing an undergraduate certificate in basic Spanish communication. A fun fact about me is that I have eleven ear piercings.)