Alumni's tips to succeed in your exams at Unistra

Organising study sessions

• Start studying at least three weeks before the exams. The Bibliothèque Nationale Universitaire (BNU) is your best ally, especially the rooms on the 4th floor, which are quieter and brighter. Plan to arrive early to make sure you have a seat, especially during the periods of mid-terms and finals.  
•   Create a doable schedule : alternate 45 minutes of work with 15 minutes of breaks. Cafés in the city centre or the Café & Co on the Patio are perfect for these breaks, but be careful not to spend all afternoon there!
• Set up study groups by subject. The IUT Learning Centre and the study rooms scattered around campus are ideal for group sessions. Book in advance if you can.

Memorising

• Summarise your lessons on coloured cards - one colour for each subject. The A5 format is ideal for re-reading them on the tram between the Observatoire and République stops.
•  Use the ‘teacher’ technique: explain your lessons aloud as if you were teaching them. The University's workspaces and gardens are perfect for this exercise.
•  For technical subjects, go through all the lectures again and time your work.

Managing stress

• The day before the exam, stop studying at 6pm. Take a walk in the Botanical Gardens or on the banks of the Ill to clear your head.
•   Prepare your clothes and equipment the day before. Double-check your student card - it's your key to exam access!
•  On the morning of the exam, arrive 30 minutes early. Le Petit Resto U in the Patio offers excellent coffees to give you energy.

For oral exams

•  Practise in front of the mirror or film yourself. The Patio's language rooms are perfect for simulating an oral in a professional setting.
• Dress simply but comfortably. Avoid new shoes on the big day!
•  Don't hesitate to ask the interviewers for clarification if a question is unclear. They appreciate students trying to get it right.

Exam retakes

• Don't think of them as a punishment, but as a second chance. The Medical Faculty library remains open late in summer and is air-conditioned.
•  Identify the mistakes you made on your first exam and focus on your weak points.
•  Use the summer to go over your lessons in nice places like the Parc de l'Orangerie. The change of environment can help to motivate you.

The D-day

•     Eat a light but nourishing meal before the exam. The Patio cafeteria offers good breakfast options.
•     Bring a bottle of water and a snack for long exams.
•  Leave 15 minutes at the end to reread your paper. Spelling mistakes can cost you precious points!

And don't forget to take a look at our Alumni portraits.

These tips are the result of years of Alumni experience. Remember: we've all been there and done that. Now it's your turn!