One Month In: Your Mid-Semester Check-In
The whirlwind of September has come and gone. Between new routines, assignments, and adjusting to campus life, the first month of university often feels like a sprint. Now, as October begins, you’ve reached your first big checkpoint: midterms. Whether this is your first year at Nipissing or you’re a seasoned upper year, this is the perfect moment to pause, check in with yourself, and refocus for the weeks ahead.
Preparing for Midterms
Midterms mark your first real test of how you’re managing the academic side of university. Instead of panicking, take a step back and make a plan.
Review strategically: Organize your notes, highlight key themes from lectures, and revisit past assignments or quizzes to see what your professors emphasize.
Use your resources: Nipissing offers plenty of support, from library study spaces and tutoring services to office hours with your professors. Study groups with classmates can also help keep you accountable.
Study smart: Try active recall techniques, like quizzing yourself, making flashcards, or explaining concepts out loud, instead of just re-reading your notes. As a first-year student, focus on figuring out what study strategies work best for you, whether that’s participating in study groups, using visual aids, or creating practice problems; use your preferred methods to deepen your understanding of the course and prepare with confidence. For upper years, build on what you’ve learned about your study habits by refining your methods and challenging yourself with more advanced practices.
Checking In on Your Mental Health
University life can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Balancing coursework, social life, and personal responsibilities isn’t always easy. Midterms add another layer of stress, which is why it’s so important to take care of yourself.
Prioritize sleep and rest: Pulling an all-nighter often does more harm than good. A well-rested mind retains information better.
Move your body: Even a quick walk around campus or a stretch break can reduce stress and boost focus.
Seek support when you need it: Nipissing’s Mental Health & Wellbeing services and Peer Support Centre are available if you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or need someone to talk to.
Taking care of your mental health isn’t a distraction; it’s a part of studying effectively.
Reflecting on the First Month
October is also a great time to look back on the first few weeks of the semester and take stock.
What’s working well? Maybe you’ve found a study space that helps you focus, or a routine that keeps you on
track. Celebrate those wins!
What could be adjusted? Maybe procrastination crept in, or you’re finding a particular class challenging. That’s normal; what matters is making small changes now before things pile up.
For first-year students, this may be your first time managing so much independence. For upper-years, it’s about refining your strategies and pushing yourself to grow. Either way, self-reflection is an important part of academic success.
Keep Moving Forward: It’s a Marathon, not a Sprint
University isn’t about sprinting through assignments and exams; it’s about pacing yourself. One tough week or one difficult test doesn’t define your semester. What matters is consistency and steady progress.
- Break your workload into manageable pieces.
- Use tools like calendars or planners to stay organized.
- Build in time for things you enjoy so your schedule doesn’t feel like an endless grind.
And most importantly, remind yourself why you’re here. Whether your goal is to earn your degree, pursue a career, or follow your passion, reconnecting with your “why” can give you the motivation to push through challenging weeks.
October is a turning point in the semester, a chance to reset, recharge, and prepare for what’s ahead. With one month behind you and midterms on the horizon, now’s the time to check in with yourself. Pace yourself, take care of your mind and body, and keep moving forward; you’ve got what it takes to go the distance.