So with classes in full gear and midterms happening all throughout October, I thought I'd touch upon the subject of stress. You probably know by now that Stony Brook is definitely not a school where you can sit back, relax and wait for the A's to fall into your lap..good grades require effort here. I've found that my planner for the month of October is pretty depressing; taking Organic Chemistry, an internship and being involved in school leadership is pretty darn stressful. There's the nights of studying and tutoring, events to plan and assist with, and papers to be written. So let me share with you how I cope.
First off, organization is key! If you don't have a planner, you need one. It's so nice to carry it around with you and know exactly what needs to be done and when. For example, in the beginning of each semester, I take all of my syllabi from the classes I'm taking and I write each test date and paper deadline into my planner. This way, I know what I'll need to do that week..and when it comes time to schedule plans with friends and club meetings, you'll see where you can fit each in.
Next, lets get down to it. School can be overwhelming. Especially if you are a freshman or transfer and are not used to studying to do well, or reading your textbook in order to know what's going on. In Physics 121 for example, the lectures on MWF are not treated as lectures, but rather as recitations. You read and do your homework outside of class time and you come in with your "clicker" to answer questions for participation points. Each class operates differently, so you need to stay on top of your course material.
How to deal with the stress? You can take many routes when dealing with it. Schedule a time each week where you don't do work, assuming you do work to begin with ;) , and take a half hour to take a power nap, watch an episode of your favorite show on Hulu, or catch up with a friend you haven't seen in a while. I know it may sound trivial to you, but when you're working hard studying for your next chemistry exam, it's nice to be able to look forward to that half hour of fun time/ "me time" on Tuesday afternoon.
Another way to relieve stress is working out. Check out the work out room on the 3rd floor of the SAC (bring your ID card). Or take a few laps around the pool in the Sports Complex (open to students between swim classes and practices, check the schedule in the Sports Complex).
Since you're a commuter, you might have a car, so I would suggest to get away from campus for a little bit if you have time and go up Nicolls Road, make a left onto 25a heading toward Stony Brook Village, and spend some time at Mill Pond (will be on your left as you follow 25a). Or go a little further up 25a, past the pond, and check out the cute shops in Stony Brook Village. There's a really good tea house with the best scones ever!! There's also The Village Green where you can sit, have lunch, or read while being surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere.
Have some fun in between the craziness! 'Till next time :)
Ann
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