For many NC State students, New Year’s resolutions may include dedicating more time to studying and working toward better grades. With a brand new set of pens, a new pack of sticky notes and fresh notebooks, shouldn’t you feel prepared for your tests? Not always, and if you feel this way, you are not alone.

According to the Spring 2016 American College Health Association National College Health Assessment, 24.2 percent of students experienced some form of testing anxiety within the 12 months prior to the study. Common symptoms of testing anxiety include blanking or freezing while taking tests, which adds to existing stress. This leads to an increase in mistakes consequentially causing lower test scores despite spending many hours studying. But, before things get way out of hand, there are many things a student can do to ensure a successful semester.

Before the start of a class, a student can review the syllabus to understand what expectations to look for. Some professors have an estimated schedule of assignments. Penciling in test dates into a calendar helps students to be more aware them rather than feeling them sneak up. Moodle is another great resource to preview academic expectations of a course.

Reaching out to a professor for questions about your course is always a good idea. This demonstrates willingness to learn and conveys to professors that a student is serious about their education. Not all professors may be as organized or have information accessible to students. Taking the initiative to contact professors helps professors understand student needs as well.

Sitting in the front row of class allows students to hear lectures and see the board. Despite numerous studies that claim that students in this location score higher test scores, it does not work for everyone. Not every student can fit in the front row of a class. In addition, for some students, sitting in the front row may cause more anxiety foregoing their ability to follow through with the class. It would be more beneficial for students to sit in a seat they feel somewhat comfortable in, but not enough to fall asleep or get distracted.

Taking notes is an essential strategy to retaining information discussed in class. According to “Study Skills and Test Anxiety” located on the Counseling Center’s website, a student who does not take notes “may forget half a lecture after 24 hours… and ninety-five percent after one month.” The website also contains valuable information about test-taking tips and strategies, how to effectively answer essay questions and other concerns in testing anxiety.

The Counseling Center is also a great resource to discuss anxiety a student may feel from classes. Talking to a professional may determine whether the pressure a student feels is normal or indicates something more serious. In some situations, a student may need extra test time or accommodations which may be granted through visiting the health center.

Keeping up with grades and tests can be challenging but it does not have to be overwhelming. There are many resources available on NC State’s campus through tutoring programs, student advisers and help from professors.