Midterms in Florence
They’re no joke, and if you think you’ll breeze right through ‘em… you won’t. I had an interesting midterms experience, and that’s what today’s blog is about—learn from my experiences and take my advice:
1. Pay attention in class
Paying attention in class will do you wonders, you already knew that but I’m here to really drill it in your head. Simply because it can be so easy to get distracted during class but try your best to always be all in during class time. Come midterms, everything will really come full circle and you won’t scramble to learn half a semester’s worth in about a week.
2. As enticing as it may seem, don’t travel every weekend
I suppose its easier said than done, you’re Europe and you want to make the most of your time here and visit as many places as you can but keep in mind that you’ll need to devote some weekend time to your studies. Some classes will have fieldtrips or weekend activities, maybe you’ll be working in a group project and the weekend is the only time that works. Or you can ignore my wisdom and that’s fine but don’t play yourself dirty by travelling the weekend before midterms—take it from my roommate Alex.
3. Structure your days
I don’t mean plan every second of everyday but give yourself an agenda for each day, make a quick list of things you must do. My roommate Alex makes notes on her iPhone every night before we go to sleep, and at first, I found it rather odd but after a while it stuck to me as well. It’s easier going to bed knowing what you must do the next day instead of running around like a chicken without its head trying to figure it all out the day of, just follow your agenda.
4. Find a good study spot
If you’re anything like me, you won’t focus being home. It’s not too hard to do back home however, consider that back home you probably have your own room or a secluded spot in your apartment or house to hunker down and get your work done. It’s a bit hard to do here, although I love my roommates to the moon and back—I will not get anything done around them. Someone starts telling a story about their day, and it turns into a story from back home, into “watch this funny video” or “listen to this song” it goes on forever and you know what doesn’t get done? Homework or studying. So, find a good spot to go study. My favorite two spots are at the Oblate Library and a restaurant called The Diner!
5. Take it seriously
Last but certainly not least, is take it seriously. When it comes down to it, you’re here for a semester abroad not a four-month vacay! Go to class, pay attention, immerse yourself with your teacher and peers. Who knows you might even learn a thing or two!
Florentine Recommendation:
Gelateria Edoardo
Piazza del Duomo, 45/R, 50122 Firenze FI
On our way home from working in the studio one night, MacKenzie and I were craving something sweet--when in Florence nothing satisfies a sweet tooth like gelato! Edoardo's is right near the Duomo and although many warn to stray away from attractions near "tourist traps" don't skip out on Edoardo's. Admittedly we went back the next night on our way home from the studio again--its that good! My flavors: Honey Lavender and Pistacchio!
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