1L of a Blog Series: Manage Stress for Success

Welcome to law school! This is a biweekly series with tips and tricks for success in law school. We’ll cover things like time management, outlining, preparing for exams, and more! Although this series covers skills and tricks that might be new to 1Ls, I hope that every member of the law school community can find something helpful here.

Final exams are (almost) here! This is a high-stress time for law students, particularly 1Ls who haven’t taken a law school final exam before. The volume of material and the pressure to perform can be overwhelming. However, managing stress effectively is critical for maintaining mental health and achieving academic success. Here are a few tips to stay calm, focused, and resilient during this intense time.

1. Create a Realistic Schedule

To make sure you’re hitting all of the material, you should map out your study schedule. However, make sure that schedule is realistic! It’s not reasonable to plan to study contracts for 14 hours straight. Instead, break your syllabi into manageable chunks and allow time for study breaks. Tools like the Pomodoro Technique can help keep you motivated and focused.

2. Prioritize Sleep & Physical Activity

Sleep and physical activity should be included in your study plan. It’s tempting to stay up all night studying, but sleep is critical for cognitive function. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to ensure your brain is well rested. Physical activity should also be a priority. It’s a natural stress reliever, so planning a quick workout or a walk around the block can help reduce anxiety and improve your focus.

3. Seek Help if Needed

If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help. Reach out to your support system for encouragement and perspective. Additionally, many law schools have mental health counseling services. There’s no shame in reaching out for support at any time.

4. Keep Perspective

When you’re in the midst of exams, it’s hard to remember that one exam does not define your worth or future career. You have been working hard all semester, and the final exam is your opportunity to show off that work to your professor. Focus on doing your best and remind yourself that exams do not define you.

Final exams are tough, but with proper planning and self-care, you can navigate them successfully. By managing stress effectively, you’re preparing for exams, and you’re building resilience and skills that will serve you throughout your career. Good luck!

(Dayna Smith)