“How do you ensure you’re well-connected with resources and support during exam season?”
Here is what 22 thought leaders had to say.
When it came to exam season, I took care of being organized and in touch with the resources I had to use. I used to timetable and divide every subject into smaller but achievable tasks. I would form study groups on each of the topics that would assist me in studying in a collaborative manner, providing alternate opinions. I also ensured that I talked to my professors whenever I had difficulty in understanding some tough concepts. I would go to their office hours or send them elaborate questions through email.
It also helped me to be in constant touch with other students. In case someone was having difficulties with some sections of the syllabus, we would hold study sessions on how to go about them in detail. I recall having a consistent schedule, getting enough sleep, and having a good balance between studying and resting. This assisted me in remaining alert and coping with my stress.
Emily Demirdonder, Director of Operations & Marketing, Proximity Plumbing
I stay well-connected through exam season by making the most of local community events. My neighborhood library and nearby community center often offer exam prep workshops, quiet group study sessions, and stress-relief activities designed with students in mind. These gatherings give me space to focus, reset, and learn in a way that feels personal and supportive.
I’ve picked up creative study tips from local tutors, discovered effective time-planning methods, and met other students who are working through the same challenges. Some events provide printed resources, practice tests, or even calming activities like guided breathing or journaling. Each one adds something useful to my routine.
Talking with people face-to-face helps me stay grounded. There’s a shared energy in the room that keeps motivation high and makes it easier to ask for help. Local events remind me that I’m part of a community that wants students to succeed, and that support often starts just down the street.
As a therapist who’s built two businesses while completing my clinical training, I learned that your support network needs to be as diverse as your stressors. When I was launching Collide Behavioral Health in 2018 while maintaining my caseload, I mapped out three distinct support categories: clinical supervisors for professional guidance, fellow entrepreneur friends for business stress, and personal connections who could handle life logistics.
The breakthrough came when I started scheduling what I call “maintenance conversations” during low-stress periods. Instead of waiting until I was drowning in client notes and business planning, I’d text my mentor every two weeks just to check in. When exam season or major deadlines hit, these relationships were already warm and ready to activate.
I found this again when launching The Entrepreneurial Therapist in 2020 during peak COVID uncertainty. My most valuable support came from having one person focused on each pressure point: a business coach for strategy questions, a therapist colleague for clinical confidence, and a mom friend who could pick up my daughter when client emergencies ran late.
The key is treating your support network like a therapy practice – you maintain relationships consistently, not just when crisis hits. I now teach my coaching clients to identify their “support triangle” before they’re overwhelmed, because scrambling for help while you’re already behind creates more stress than the original problem.
Danielle Swimm, Consultant, Entrepreneurial Therapist
Forming a preparation circle at the beginning of the semester is one of the ways that can help me keep in touch with resources and support throughout the term and especially during stressful times, such as exams or other critical deadlines. These are some people I trust, be it mentors, peers, or colleagues and can call upon when I need some quick advice, to hold me accountable, or provide me with a dose of reality when things are overwhelming. I have discovered that a safety net such as this circle can assist me and make me feel more confident and less alone when the pressure strikes.
Being a multi-tasker, I have learned that it is not about being able to do everything myself, but rather who and what I can depend on. A trusted network and organized resources make it all seem so much easier and it gives me the head space to appear fully and remain focused in a way that matters most.
Kira Byrd, Co-Founder & Co-Owner, Curl Centric
I treat exam season like a mental marathon, so I build psychological resilience alongside my study routine. I’ve joined resilience workshops that focus on stress management, emotional balance, and daily coping tools. These sessions help me slow down, set clear boundaries, and stay grounded instead of letting anxiety take over.
These experiences also connected me with people who value mental well-being as much as academic performance. Conversations with classmates and mentors who share similar struggles and solutions remind me that pressure is normal, and support is always available. Strengthening my mindset makes a huge difference in how I prepare and how I feel throughout the process. Resilience isn’t just personal—it’s shared.
Ben Bouman, Business Owner, HeavyLift Direct
During every exam season, I make sure that I am well-prepared by organizing all materials that I may require in a single location. I do this by bookmarking all of the academic support pages and tutoring center contacts at my university in a specific folder in my browser. This makes it quick and easy to get any assistance I may require in a moment of panic, be it a tutor in a particular subject or any study materials. The trick is to do all the preparation before the stress hits, so I do not waste time searching for information when I need it most.
I did it last year when I was struggling with a complicated subject during the finals. The tutoring services were all bookmarked, so I did not have to spend time trying to find any contact information or trying to find out whether someone was available or not. I simply contacted a tutor. In an hour, I had a session scheduled. Having prepared earlier was the difference. I did not need to deal with the extra stress of trying to figure out where to seek assistance because I could focus on studying and knew that support was a click away.
James Myers, Sales Director and Office Manager, VINEVIDA
When I was in school, I made a conscious effort to connect with my fellow classmates outside of class so that we could study together and reach out to each other for help. I would definitely recommend this, whether you go to school in-person or online. Sometimes you might not be able to go to your professors for help, so your classmates who have been learning with you can be the best option for assistance and support.
Edward Tian, CEO, GPTZero
I make real-time connection a priority while studying, so interactive online platforms play a huge role in how I stay supported throughout exam season. I regularly join live Q&A sessions where I can ask specific questions, clear up confusion instantly, and learn from other students’ thought processes. Hearing different explanations from tutors or peers helps concepts click in a way that textbooks sometimes can’t.
These platforms often include features like collaborative whiteboards, screen sharing, and breakout discussions, which turn passive studying into something much more engaging. I’m able to bounce ideas around, test my understanding in real time, and even build lasting academic connections.
The sense of community keeps me motivated, especially when stress levels are high. I don’t feel like I’m cramming in silence; I feel like I’m part of a group working toward something meaningful together. That shared energy makes a big difference in how I study and how confident I feel walking into exams.
Sean Shapiro, Managing Partner, Axia Advisors
When exam season rolls around, I don’t just hit the books; I build a system. Staying connected with the right resources and support starts “before” stress kicks in. I map out my calendar using spaced repetition and retrieval practice, because those cognitive-science-backed techniques aren’t just buzzwords; they actually stick. I join digital study groups early, follow professors’ office hours religiously, and keep a shortlist of go-to videos, articles, and flashcard decks.
But here’s the real secret: I treat my mental bandwidth like a limited resource. I plan breaks, prioritize sleep, and stay social in small ways so I don’t burn out in isolation. Staying well-connected isn’t about asking for help when you’re drowning; it’s about building a support loop from day one. That way, when pressure hits, I already have the tools, people, and confidence in place to keep going strong.
Eric Do Couto, Chief Marketing Officer, Visualping
I pay a lot of attention to planning everything in order not to lose touch with resources during exam period. I apply Notion and divide each of the subjects into distinct tasks, which makes my study sessions easily organized and focused. I allocate certain time to each of the subjects and ensure that I monitor my progress as I proceed. Such an organization allows me to avoid stress and remain constantly on the move so that I do not have to panic when an exam is near.
I also use my mentors’ and peers’ networks to cover the gaps when I require additional support. If I don’t understand, I will contact the right individual who can give me practical information. This network of people assures me when I am through with a hard study time. It is strategic in my planning and relationships so that when exams come around, I am not caught fumbling at the eleventh hour.
Dr. David Ghozland, Owner and OB/GYN, David Ghozland
Support from fellow students and materials really helps at exam time – I’m doing several other modules as well. Tech tools can help, from study groups (in chat rooms, by telephone, through text) to virtual tutoring to educational Web sites. If you ever feel disoriented or in need of advice, it is worth it to reach out (to a professor or academic adviser) and see if you can find that guidance.
And remember to take care of yourself as you prepare. Keep a good routine with consistent movement and nutrition to feel high energy and on point. By taking baby steps and being consistent, things will feel more manageable and you’ll be ready when it’s exam time. The little bit of work you do now will pay off when it counts.
Geremy Yamamoto, Founder, Eazy House Sale
I rely on smart tech tools to stay connected and in control throughout exam season. I set up digital calendar alerts for every major deadline, review session, and even short breaks, so nothing sneaks up on me. Color-coded timelines and shared docs keep my study plans clear, and syncing everything across devices means I always know what’s next, whether I’m at my desk or on the go.
Apps like task managers, focus timers, and collaborative platforms also help me stay organized and connected with study groups. We share resources, track our goals, and motivate each other without getting lost in endless chats. Using technology with intention makes my prep feel structured and supportive, instead of chaotic. It’s less about having the latest app and more about using digital tools to create clarity and community.
Josh Howarth, Co-Founder & CTO, Exploding Topics
My study habit during exam time is to keep myself surrounded with the right people and materials by having a well-organized support system. I take the initiative to talk to my colleagues and mentors whenever I need some advice or have something to clarify. As an example, when I encounter a very thorny problem, I seek the opinion of those people who have more experience, and it helps me to refine my knowledge. I am not afraid to use online communities or groups specific to the industry in order to have different opinions.
The role of time management in remaining in touch is extremely large. I dedicated certain time during the week to meetings, study time, and updates with coworkers. This helps me not to miss out and remain in touch with the process. Having a calendar of deadlines and significant conversations will help me to not overlook important resources and ideas.
Sometimes I also do get professional assistance, such as hiring a tutor to sharpen up on some of the aspects.
Tim Watson, Kitchen and Bathroom Renovator / Founder / Director, Oakridge Renovations
I would always make sure that I have contacts and support throughout the exam season, as I also maintain frequent contact with reliable colleagues and mentors. Arranging check-ins with my colleague to talk about difficult subjects, exchange thoughts has kept me encouraged. My family has also provided me with emotional support as they ensure that I am grounded and balanced in stressful moments. I recall that there was a time when I was taking a really heavy exam load, and I organized weekly study sessions with several of my peers. This gave us a chance to go over things and ask questions when we had them. This helped me be focused and on track. Because of professional advice and emotional support, I never felt alone in the process.
Dr. Nima Azarbehi, Physician and Founder, Melt Aesthetics and Liposuction
When finals exam time approached, I felt pretty overwhelmed. So, I messaged a couple of friends, and we started a small group chat just to keep each other on track. We ended up sharing notes, voice messages, random reminders, and memes when things got rough. It wasn’t planned, just something that kept us going.
Surprisingly, my study time felt more focused and way less lonely. I finished reviewing earlier than usual because I wasn’t doing it all in my head.
My suggestion for anyone is to find their study crew early, even if it’s just two or three people. You don’t need a perfect system, just people who’ve got your back.
Jack Johnson, Director, Rhino Rank
I stay well-connected through exam season by joining industry-specific webinars that match my field of study. Listening to professionals speak about real challenges, current tools, and evolving trends helps me understand the bigger picture behind the material I’m reviewing. It gives depth to topics that might otherwise feel abstract or disconnected from real work.
I treat these webinars like live case studies. I take detailed notes, ask questions in the chat, and often reach out to the speakers or other attendees afterward to keep the discussion going. These sessions introduce fresh insights and often spark ideas that stick with me long after the exam. They remind me that what I’m learning has value far beyond the test paper and that I’m part of a larger professional community with shared interests and goals.
Emily Ruby, Owner, Abogada De Lesiones
I am proactive by ensuring that I get ahead of the game. This involves setting a study plan, which is done a few weeks ahead of exams, and this is to split the things I need to revise. This helps me avoid that last-minute panic. To ensure that I remain energized, I set sessions of concentrated study and then allow myself the breaks. I do not switch the topics very often, but I put related subjects in clusters to enhance memorization. This strategy will help to be more consistent in following the plan and completing the workload effectively.
I am connected especially during exam time. I also meet regularly with professors and peers– a short conversation can help me to get the point that I might have misunderstood. I use the best sources, such as office hours and YouTube tutorials, to fill in blanks. I have no problems asking someone to help me, and sometimes a small chat can help to resolve an issue. I also create time to move, even in a short walk. It makes my mind clear, soothes my stress level, and keeps me active. Being active is important to remain focused and prevent burnout. Maintaining order and being connected will allow me to be ahead of the game, conquer any obstacle, and work to my full potential.
Dr. Chad Walding, Co-Founder and Chief Culture Officer, NativePath
During every exam season, I stay in touch with my classmates in a special group chat, where all of us share news, explain questions & support each other. The most recent was during my preparation for the Chartered Financial Analyst Level II examination last quarter. Two weeks before the exam, our WhatsApp group, which was made up of eight finance students was an absolute lifeline when the format of exam changed unexpectedly.
One of the members found out that a testing body had included new derivative pricing models in the syllabus, which none of us had learned. In a few hours, one of my classmates had posted summarized notes of a prep course she had taken, and I posted annotated practice problems. Each night we held Zoom sessions where we could discuss these new concepts together. Had I not had that group alert system, I would have entered that exam completely blind to almost 15 percent of the material.
Matt Woodley, Founder & Editor-in-Chief, InternationalMoneyTransfer.com
A support system is useful in the rough period of the exam season. You should seek to associate yourself with mentors and peers at the early stages of your career, because they will provide you with the most valuable insights and advice when you need it most. My experience tells me that you always need to maintain such links throughout the year to ensure you never wake up only to find that the heat is up and there is no one to help you.
My advice would be to stay in touch with forums and study groups to keep yourself sharp and occupied. You can get acquainted with those people who can share their experiences about the challenges of being motivated in these trying times. Teamwork is such a key cog in my profession, and so it should also be the case in taking high-stress situations like exams. Accountability and advice go a long way in going through tough material, and it may all depend on who you trust. Once you have access to credible sources, whether academic or professional, there is some sliver of peace that allows you to grab hold of your senses and place your focus where it is supposed to be: your studies.
Austin Rulfs, Founder, SME Business Investor, Property & Finance Specialist, Zanda Wealth
As someone who survived the intense pressure of medical residency at University of Pittsburgh and fellowship at UC San Diego, I learned that your support network during high-stress periods needs to be both diverse and immediately accessible. During my final year of training, I was juggling research, procedures, and licensing prep when I hit a wall—I created strict time blocks and built what I call “pressure release valves” into my schedule.
My game-changer was establishing non-negotiable weekly check-ins with mentors, study partners, and even mental health support before I desperately needed them. When I started noticing signs of burnout—short temper, mental fog, emotional disconnection—I already had a therapist lined up who understood healthcare pressure. Most students wait until they’re drowning to seek help, but I’d learned to be proactive about my mental health infrastructure.
The technique that saved me during boards was what I now call “crisis rehearsal”—I mapped out exactly who I’d contact for different types of breakdowns (academic, emotional, logistical) and tested these systems during lower-stress periods. When exam season hit and my usual study methods weren’t working, I immediately pivoted to my backup plan: switching to visual learning techniques and leaning on my study group for accountability.
My biggest insight from managing both medical training and now running a practice is that your support system works best when you’re contributing value to others first. I shared my clinical insights with fellow residents and helped them with procedures. When I needed help with research or was struggling with a difficult case, they genuinely wanted to help me succeed.
I can say that I had to learn it the hard way. Trying to work your way through exam seasons by yourself with late nights, large amounts of content, and the amount of mental stress that does not allow you to sleep fully is not the way to go. The ideal thing was that I established my support system early in life, before I was overwhelmed. I would make a list of default people, a friend to whom I could send a text when I had to rant, a mentor with whom I could have a conversation when I needed to put myself in a better place, a group of classmates who would in reality, not to say drain me, but rather boost my energy. I did not necessarily need to use them, but their existence was quite beneficial.
I did have one or two dependable academic resources to look at, not twenty tabs of loose PDFs. As in my case, it is a clean review guide and a short list of practice questions that I can change daily. Such practice brought order in my life; it did not add stress. I wanted not to be perfect, but stable. Looking back at it, I feel that the best I did is the realization that connection is not only emotional but also practical. Knowing what and whom you can count on gives you space in the head to be able to learn rather than just trying to survive.
Brian Clark BSN, MSNA, Founder and CEO / Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, United Medical Education
During every exam season, I join study groups on Discord. The most recent one that helped me the most was an electricians-only group that dealt with licensing exams in Victoria. I have used it when studying to do my Certificate III in Electrotechnology assessment. The members shared diagrams, practice questions, and their own suggestions on how to approach the more difficult parts such as MEN systems, fault loop impedance & test instrument procedures. The majority of them were already at workplaces so the feedback was based on actual practice.
I would take screenshots of cable sizing or fault current calculations I saw in the chat and pin them in a folder on my phone. This way, I would be able to study them on my lunch breaks or while waiting for parts. I even had a couple of voice chats in late evenings where we went through the scenarios together. Those sessions cleared up a few things I had been second-guessing in the textbook.
Caspar Matthews, Director, Electcomm Group Electrical & Data
