THE MARATHON OF MIDTERMS
NAVIGATING THE DEMANDS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OREGON'S QUARTER SYSTEM
As the University of Oregon's quarter system plunges into midterm season, students find themselves navigating a grueling marathon of exams that stretches beyond the confines of a single week, amplifying fatigue and stress levels across campus.
Traditionally envisioned as a concentrated week of assessments, midterms at UO often extend from week five and can persist until the final weeks of the term, coinciding with preparations for end-of-term finals. This prolonged period of testing poses a significant challenge for students, who must juggle multiple exams alongside ongoing coursework and extracurricular commitments.
For many students, the relentless barrage of midterms has become an endurance test, with some facing the daunting prospect of finals looming just around the corner while still contending with midterm assessments. Week seven sees a significant cohort of students still entrenched in the midst of midterm exams, exacerbating the strain on mental and physical well-being.
One student's recollection of a midterm scheduled during week ten, coupled with a subsequent final for the same class, underscores the prolonged and arduous nature of midterm season at UO. The experience resonates with many, highlighting the challenges posed by an academic structure that extends testing periods far beyond the confines of a single week.
Midterm fatigue has become a pervasive reality for students navigating the quarter system at UO. As exams stretch over multiple weeks, the cumulative effect of stress and exhaustion takes its toll, prompting one student to humorously liken midterms to a two-humped camel—a fitting analogy for the ordeal that many students endure.
Despite the challenges, the resilience of UO students shines through as they persevere through the marathon of midterms, demonstrating adaptability and determination in the face of academic rigors. As the quarter progresses, it becomes increasingly evident that navigating midterm season is not just a test of academic prowess, but also a testament to the resilience and fortitude of the UO student body.
