It’s that time of year again. Exam week is here!

Catholic Central knows how much effort our students put into their studies, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Whether you're reviewing months of material or just trying to stay calm under pressure, smart preparation can make all the difference.

Here are some tips to help you get ready and a few school resources you should definitely take advantage of.

1. Start with a Plan

Don’t wait until the night before to open your notes. Begin by writing out your exam schedule and estimating how much time you’ll need for each subject. Break your studying into manageable chunks, like an hour here, 45 minutes there, with short breaks in between.

Pro Tip: Use a planner or digital calendar to stay organized and schedule study sessions around other commitments.

2. Create a Study Space

Where you study matters. Find a quiet, distraction-free space at home—or take advantage of one of the designated study areas at school. The library at Catholic Central is open after school and is a great place to focus.

Bonus: Studying in the same place consistently can help your brain associate that spot with productivity.

3. Try Active Studying

Reading over your notes isn’t enough. Instead, try active techniques like:

• Creating flashcards (physical or digital via Quizlet)
• Teaching the material to someone else
• Quizzing yourself
• Creating summary sheets for each subject

Visual learner? Try color-coding your notes or drawing diagrams to help concepts stick.

4. Study in the Courtyard

Looking for a peaceful place to study? The courtyard in the George and Mary Turek Hall of Science offers a serene outdoor environment with beautiful visuals, including statues and iconography that enrich the entire building. 

From the large crucifix and Seat of Wisdom statues in the courtyard to the welcoming figure of St. Albert at the entrance, these captivating works of art provide a quiet, reflective space perfect for reading, reviewing notes, or simply taking a moment to breathe and refocus.

5. Stay Healthy

Good grades are important, but so is your well-being. During exam week:

• Get plenty of sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours per night. Pulling an all-nighter will likely do more harm than good.
• Eat balanced meals. Fuel your brain with protein, fruits, and vegetables. Skip the energy drinks. They’ll lead to a crash later.
• Stay hydrated. Dehydration affects focus and memory.
• Take breaks. A quick walk, prayer, or even a power nap can reset your mind and reduce stress.

6. Pray and Reflect

Academics are only part of your journey. Take a few minutes each day to pray, reflect, or attend Mass. Ask God for wisdom, clarity, and peace of mind. Sometimes, the quiet moments of prayer can bring the calm you need before a big test.

7. Ask for Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. Your teachers, counselors, coaches, and campus ministry staff are here to support you - not just in academics, but in life. No one expects you to be perfect, but we do want you to feel supported.

Exams can be stressful, but with a solid plan and the right support, you've got this. Remember, success isn’t just about getting the best grade; it’s about learning, growing, and doing your best with integrity. Lean into your community, stay focused, and take it one day at a time.

View the full Underclassman Exam Schedule here: https://www.catholiccentral.net/calendar/underclassman-exam-schedule

Good luck, Shamrocks! We’re cheering you on!