Monday 07-04-2025 - 15:20

Ah, exam season. That magical time of year where the library is suddenly the place to be, and your caffeine intake triples overnight. But don’t panic—we’ve got you.

We asked our wonderful placement students to spill the beans on how they survive assessment season, and their advice is as real as it gets.

Let’s dive into their top tips...

 

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🌟Georgie (Engagement Assistant)

Make sure you make the most of the uni’s support services like the Study Skills workshops and the Careers Hub. These resources are designed to give you a boost during exam season, and you’re technically already paying for them so might as well take full advantage of them.

Top Tips:

• Set limits on your screen time. I’ll wait to start my assignment until my phone hits 5% so I can’t scroll.
• Plan something exciting for post-revision. A night out? A massive nap? Your call.
• You’ll never regret too much prep - but you will regret winging it.
• Slow and steady wins the race. Consistency over chaos.

 

Favourite study space: Study pods in the John Dalton Building

 

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🌞Aimee (Engagement Assistant)

I think one of the main things to remember is that just because you fail one module, it doesn't mean the end of the world and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed everything else. It happens more often than you think and usually you’ll get a chance to re-sit it.

Also, it’s okay to ask for help, it doesn’t make you any less smart. Whether it’s reaching out to lecturers, attending support sessions, or just asking a friend, getting clarification early on can make a huge difference.

Top Tips:

• Try not to overthink it. It’s easier said than done but having confidence in yourself really helps.
• Makes sure to look after yourself. Getting proper rest and breaks is just as important as studying.
• Don’t pull all-nighters or cram last minute, it will only add to the stress and makes it harder to retain information.
• Don’t compare yourself to others; focus on your own progress.

 

Favourite study space: Business School top floor, or chill on The Union Mezzanine.

 

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💫Sara (Engagement Assistant)

My biggest tip for exams is trying to not leave anything last minute. Give yourself enough time to go through everything you need to without the added stress of cramming. I really recommend using the library resources too, especially for tips on how to reference.

Top tips:

• Make sure to hydrate and remember to eat properly.
• Whenever you're doing a study stint makes sure to take snacks.
• Remember it’s ok to feel nervous stressed or even cry. Sometimes you just need to let it out.
• Studying with friends can make it easier and even fun.

 

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🚀Jonathan (Engagement Assistant)

Study wise I'd really recommend one of the study spaces in The Union building. They’ve got the Mezzanine on the first floor and The Study and Union Living Room on the second floor. Plus, if you’re worried about something The Advice Centre is always there to help.

Top tips:

• Create a survival kit for future-you. Chuck in your favourite snack, calming tea, a note from yourself or even a lavender sachet. Hide it away. Then when the exam panic hits, open it.
• Balance your study time. Breaks are essential, not optional.
• Avoid last-minute late-night revision. Your brain deserves actual sleep.

 

Favourite study space: Study pods near the Business School entrance.

 

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😌Phoebe (Project Assistant)

Start prepping early so you can properly digest information and not be in a mad panic. This means you can structure your assignments/revision more and makes the season less stressful. Plus, make sure to take advantage of the help your seminar tutors and things the uni provides. Getting advice on your drafts can make a massive difference on your grade

Top tips:

• Set a deadline every day for revision cut-off. For example “After 5pm, I’m Done.”.
• Use the library Study Skills.
• Do something you love after studying like TV, a walk or seeing your mates.
• Make a study plan with built-in chill time.

 

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✨Richmond (Project Assistant)

One of my main tips would be to start by breaking down an assignment or revision topic into small manageable chunks. Then for each chunk go back through the recorded lectures or your seminar notes.

Top tips:

• Record seminars if you can so you don’t have to reply on writing everything down.
• Ask questions early. Make sure to ask questions in seminars and lectures as soon as they come up. This will help in the long run.
• Preparation beats panic.

 

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💡Steph (Marketing & Communications Assistant)

I think the best thing I can recommend is to treat your assignments or revision like a 9 to 5 job. Pick hours that work for, show up, get it done and then log off. This just then means you can spend your weekends and evenings guilt free and actually have a break.

Top tips:

• If you’re unsure about something act on it early. Go through your notes, check your lectures and then if your still stuck message your lecturer or personal tutor early. You're more likely to get a quicker reply if you don’t leave it last minute.
• Look after yourself. Make sure you go outside and are eating properly.
• When you need a break take it. You’re no use to yourself if you’re burnt out.

 

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💛Final words of wisdom

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or worried about something—talk to someone. Whether it’s your personal tutor or the team at The Union’s Advice Centre, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. A problem shared is a problem halved, and you deserve the support.

Most importantly, make sure to look after yourself during exam season. Rest, breathe, snack, stretch and keep going. You’re doing better than you think.

You’ve got this. Go smash it🎓✨