The Stress of Academics

       If you attend college or have attended college I am sure that by now you have experienced the stress that academics come with. According to the article, “Predictors of Academic-Related Stress in College Students: An Examination of Coping, Social Support, Parenting, and Anxiety” (Smith and Renk) Blimling and Miltenberger (1981) have determined that there are many factors contributing to the academic stress “planning for the future, struggling with exams and assignments, meeting the demands of challenging professors, deciding on a major, and transitioning into financial and emotional independence, can be an overwhelming experience for many students.”  (2). Margaret Keys, Instructional Services Department in University Library at Sacramento State, has several tips that could help lower your stress level in academics. 

Tip #1 
Do not procrastinate. This could minimize stress and you will not have to worry about writing a paper or putting together a presentation last minute so you will have time to relax.
Tip #2
Study as you go. This will help so you do not have to cram all the information into study sessions later.
 
Tip #3Allow extra time for finals. These are very important and if you are short on time you may become stressed.

Tip #4
Get organized. When people are organized they tend to be less stressed because you do not have to worry about anything. Tip #5
Find a quiet place. When it comes to study time you do not want to be stressed because of the noise. Try the library or even a study room.

 Tip #6 
Power in numbers. Study in groups, that way you can receive others people’s point of views and can enough quiz each other. Tip #7
Arrive for exams on time. If you are late you have less time than originally and can make you feel like you are being rushed. Tip #8
Take care of your body. Exercise gives you energy, helps you sleep, and relieve stress. Nutrition helps with the development of your brain. Sleep helps with lowering stress hormones and helps you retain new information. Tip #9 
Just relax. Relaxing can reduce the level of stress hormone, cortical, so try reading, yoga, even chatting with a friend. Tip #10 
 PMA. This stands for positive mental attitude. Do not think negatively. Be optimistic.


                                If you start to think you are becoming stressed try some of these regimens, they may actually work for you. if you have any concerns try these websites: http://www.unco.edu/ssac/resources/Academic_stress.pdf or http://library.csus.edu/services/inst/10tips/Stress.pdf
By: Kelsey Dale