Surviving the Slope: 10 Thoughts Everyone Has During Prelim Season

Author: Jacky Falkenberg
Jacky’s column Surviving the Slope is about finding the best kale, learning to love excruciating pain, and getting swole at Helen Newman. Whether your goal is to stay fit during the winter or simply avoid the freshman 15, Surviving the Slope will give you all the inside tips you need to build a healthier you.
1. Well, that came out of nowhere.

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Seems like you were just leisurely making your way through the semester and then all of a sudden – BAM!, your prelim tries to get the best of you.
2. Could things get any worse?

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During prelim season, it’s easy to feel like the world is crashing down. You’re cold, stressed, busy and, to top it all off, you still need to review your 40-page study guide.
3. Alright, I’m gonna kill this thing.

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At this point, you have a gameplan. You know what to study, and you’re ready to master this test.
4. Too much studying, I can’t do this anymore.
After you hit that five hour mark, reality sets in. So much to do, so little time. You’re ready to give up.
5. I think I’m losing it.

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If you’re a paper airplane maker or a serial study dancer, this thought is one you may have a lot. You’ve resorted to doing strange things to quickly boost your mood, and your friends are beginning to notice.
6. I need to relax.

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At this point, you see the problem. Time to take a step back and divide and conquer. You’ve got this.
7. Time for emotional eating.

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Right before the exam, the nerves start to set in. All you seem to hear is the fridge calling your name. Plus, that leftover pasta will definitely help you focus…right?
8. Okay, showtime!

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You’ve done all you can do, and you’re ready for action. Bring on the exam.
9. What the heck is all of this?

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About half way through the exam, you start to realize you know less than you thought you did.
10. I don’t even know what just happened.

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Exam done. You couldn’t be more clueless as to what just happened. On the bright side, at least it’s over.
Prelims, stress, surviving the slope