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How to Survive Midterm Season as an Aggie

Midterm season is here, and if you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. Here are some strategies to help you manage stress and stay on top of that to-do list.

Plan your week
Instead of starting one massive and overwhelming to-do list, break larger assignments into smaller, realistic tasks. Use a planner, phone reminders, electronic calendar or even sticky notes. Seeing a large workload as smaller steps makes it easier to focus and reduces the urge to procrastinate.

Find your study spot
The right environment can make all the difference. Whether it’s Evans Library, the MSC or the lounge of your dorm, choose a place where you can concentrate best. Even consider switching locations to break up long study sessions.

Don’t neglect your sleep and nutrition
All nighters might seem and feel productive, but they rarely pay off. Aim for consistent rest so your brain can truly retain the information. Pair good rest with a balanced meal, snacks and plenty of water to keep energy high and steady. The hall kitchen is a good place to make a quick meal/or snack when you need a good and productive study break. Dining halls also offer easy access to a variety and balanced options and a change of scenery when you’ve been stuck at your desk all day.

Study smarter not longer
How you study matters more than how long you study. Active methods like flashcards, practice tests or explaining a concept to a friend force you to engage with the material instead of just rereading the notes. Try setting a timer for 25-30 minutes of focused work followed by a short 15 minute break. You’ll get your studying done and commit it to memory in the process.

Delegate time to stay active
Exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress and clear your head. A walk around the building, across campus or even an hour at the rec center can reset your energy and mindset.

Connect with the Aggie network
You’re not alone feeling the midterm pressure and stress. Friends, classmates and roommates can be valuable support systems. Organize a group to meet in Aggie Park, quiz each other with flashcards or just check in with a quick, “How are you?” Sometimes encouragement or validation from others makes the workload feel more manageable.

Keep perspective
Midterms matter, but they don’t define your semester. A single test or paper isn’t the full picture of you or your performance. Focus on doing your best, take what you learn into the next class and remember there’s still time to finish strong before finals. Keeping perspective can help reduce stress and keep you moving forward.

Aggies in Action with O&E Student Coordinators Mia & Alisa

From Suitemates to Student Coordinators in Residence Life

Residence Life at Texas A&M is more than just housing, it’s where students grow as leaders, find community and discover new opportunities. For two Aggies, living in a suite-style residence hall not only introduced them to campus life but also to the behind-the-scenes support that keeps it running smoothly. When Mia Rincon '28, and Alisa Sexton '28, saw how dedicated the Operations and Events team was to making them feel at home, they were inspired to join the department themselves. Today, Rincon and Sexton serve as student coordinators, helping fellow residents feel at home and continuing the cycle of Aggies supporting Aggies.

Their story of leadership and friendship all started with one maintenance request. While Rincon and Sexton were not roommates, they were suitemates sharing an adjoining bathroom. The concerns raised in the request prompted staff to revisit an issue that had previously been reported. During that process, both rooms in the connecting suite were temporarily relocated. Rincon recalled that they “ended up getting in touch with Emile [and he] basically saved the day” throughout the relocation. They were impressed with the level of communication and care given by the Operations and Events team and as encouraged by program coordinator Emile Medrano, the two applied for open student worker positions.

Since the spring 2025 semester, both have held the title of student coordinator for the department. “We do a little bit of everything,” Sexton said. “It’s a lot of walking through the dorms, making sure that everything looks like it’s supposed to, doing inspections of different things, and there’s always an odd task here or there.” Both highlighted the wide variety of responsibilities and the busy seasons that keep their roles dynamic and themselves adaptable.

When asked about their favorite part of the job, Rincon said she enjoys the people and environment most. “It’s always teamwork stuff … I really like being in a team, like working with other people,” she said. Sexton said she enjoys the variety and unpredictability. “We do a little bit of everything …it’s always something different every day and you never really know what to expect.”

As student coordinators, the two not only take on diverse tasks and responsibilities but also gain important and valuable skills they will carry into their future careers. When asked about what they’ve learned on the job, they each had a different answer but one equally impactful. “[Here] you really learn how to adapt to situations quickly and do the best with what you have,” Sexton said. Rincon’s answer tied directly to the practice of one of the Aggie Core Values: leadership. “Some days you kind of have a leadership role … when we’re in team situations someone usually has to lead in that group and make sure everyone stays on task,” she said.

While Rincon and Sexton are only two individuals from the Operations and Events team, their individual contributions leave an impact on the residents. When asked about how they feel their work impacts the student resident experience, both responded as true Aggies, exemplifying their care for selfless service. “[Residents] want it to feel like home, so we’re really a big part of making it feel like home,” Sexton said. As Aggies committed to creating a welcoming environment, Rincon added, “We want to make sure it’s the best we can make it be for them.”

For Rincon and Sexton, the Department of Residence Life has become more than just a place to work. It’s a place where they have grown as leaders, built a friendship and found a way to give back to fellow Aggies. What started as a simple connection through a maintenance request turned into an opportunity to help others feel at home on campus.

Aggies in Action with Senior APM Kate Hudson

A Dedicated Academic Peer Mentor at Texas A&M University

At Texas A&M University, the Academic Peer Mentors (APMs) are a cornerstone of Resident Life’s programs and services for student success, fostering a supportive and enriching academic environment within the residence halls. One of the shining stars of this program is Kate Hudson, a passionate and dedicated senior APM who has been making a significant impact on her fellow Aggies.

Kate Hudson, a member of the class of 2026, is majoring in human resource development with minors in business and psychology. Her journey as an APM began two years ago, driven by a desire to give back to the Aggie family and build strong, meaningful relationships with her peers.

“I became an APM to give back to the Aggie family, and I really enjoy building strong one-on-one relationships, which is what our program really focuses on,” Hudson said.

One of the key responsibilities Hudson holds as an APM is organizing and presenting REVTalks—campus-wide programs that are akin to TED Talks but tailored to the unique needs and interests of Texas A&M students. These REVTalks cover a wide range of essential college topics, including study abroad opportunities, Engineering to a Major (ETAM), financial management, course registration and the process of dropping a course (Q-drop). Hudson’s enthusiasm for these events is palpable:

“Some responsibilities I have as an Academic Peer Mentor are putting on programs that are campus-wide called REVTalks. They’re kind of like TED Talks, except REVTalks are the Aggie version.”

In addition to REVTalks, Hudson excels at creating in-hall programs that foster a sense of community among residents. These programs provide a platform for students to connect, share experiences and learn about the various services offered by the APMs.

“One thing that I really enjoy doing is putting on in-hall programs, just to build that community and to talk with residents. It’s really nice because, not only am I talking to residents, but residents are talking to each other,” Hudson said.

The APM program offers a variety of services designed to help students succeed academically. Academic Check-Ups (ACUs) are one-on-one meetings where students can discuss academic strategies, campus resources, or general college life with an APM. These sessions are tailored to the individual needs of the students, providing personalized support and guidance.

APMs also hold office hours where students can drop in to ask questions about their academic progress, schedules and campus involvement. This accessibility ensures that students have the support they need when they need it. Additionally, APMs collaborate with residence hall staff to plan academic programs that promote a well-rounded university experience.

Hudson’s approach to her role as an APM goes beyond merely educating her peers, she actively works to create opportunities for students to bond and build connections. By facilitating interactions among residents, she helps them form friendships and support networks that enhance their overall university experience.

Texas A&M Residence Life Shines at SWACUHO Conference

SWACUHO Award Winners

College Station, TX – Feb. 21, 2025 – Texas A&M University's Residence Life department proudly announces the outstanding achievements of its delegation at the 2025 Southwest Association of College and University Housing Officers (SWACUHO) conference. The event, held earlier this month, brought together housing professionals from across the region to share knowledge, network, and celebrate excellence in the field of university housing.

SWACUHO is a prestigious organization dedicated to the advancement of housing and residence life professionals in the southwestern United States. The annual conference is a highlight for members, featuring workshops, presentations, and awards that recognize exceptional contributions to the field.

This year, Texas A&M's Residence Life delegation made a significant impact, earning multiple awards for their innovative programs and dedicated service. The following individuals and programs were honored:

  • Jim Gibson Award: Maggie Guzman, Associate Director, Risk Management & Human Resources, was recognized with this award for her service to the SWACUHO organization. It is the highest honor SWACUHO bestows and is not always given out each year.
  • Top Program Award: Candice Olson, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives, for her program, "Icebreakers for Introverts." Candice's program was recognized for its creative approach to helping introverts engage and connect within their residence communities.
  • Top 5 Program Award: Konner Carnahan, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives, received two of these awards for programs, "Work-Life Synergy: Moving Past Balance and Embracing What Works," and "Supervising With Empathy: The Intersections of Accountability and Compassion." 
  • Bob Cook Distinguished Service Award: Carly Smith, Program Manager for Training and Development, was honored for her exceptional service and dedication to Texas A&M University Residence Life. Carly's contributions have made a lasting impact on the Texas A&M community.
  • Dan Mizer Facilities Maintenance Professional of Distinction Award: Rob Webber, Associate Director, Operations & Events, received this award for his outstanding work creating programs and initiatives that positively impact the university's housing facilities. Rob's commitment to excellence ensures a safe and comfortable living environment for all students
  • Frank Cloud Award of Excellence: Awarded to Texas A&M University for excellence in the department's professional staff and wellbeing programs. The award was accepted by Sara McCoy, Assistant Director for Community Success Initiatives and Konner Carnahan, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives. 
  • Gene Ward Outstanding Student Award: Eric Nguyen received this award for his exemplary involvement and leadership as a student within the residence life community.

Residence Life also had extensive Leadership Representation at the conference:

  • Maggie Guzman recognized as Past President
  • Carly Smith will continue to serve as a Co-Chair for the Programming Committee
  • Fred Dillard, Assistant Director of Residence Education, will continue to serve as the Conferences Coordinator for the Executive Board
  • Sara McCoy was elected to serve as the Secretary for the Executive Board
  • Texas A&M was selected to be the host sight for SWACUHO's Fall Student Staff Leadership Conference in October 2025. Madi Evans and Steven Smith are serving as the conference co-chairs.

The Texas A&M Residence Life department continues to strive for excellence in providing a welcoming and enriching living experience for all students. The recognition at the SWACUHO conference underscores the department's leadership and commitment to fostering a positive campus environment.

 

Spring Cleaning Your Pantry: How to Help

Spring is the perfect time to not only clean out your living space but also your pantry. As we welcome the warmer weather and fresh beginnings, it's a great opportunity to take stock of your food supplies and consider donating any unwanted goods. Just like we declutter our homes, decluttering our pantries can make a significant impact on those facing food insecurity. By spring cleaning your pantry and donating unopened, unexpired food items to programs like Grocery Give and Grab, you can help ensure that no student goes hungry. So, as you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember to extend your efforts to your pantry and make a difference in the lives of others.

 

About Grocery Give and Grab

The average meal plan on campus, Block 115, provides students with roughly one meal a day. This alone is not enough to adequately supply a student with proper nutrition. It also doesn’t account for the social meals with classmates, the late-night hunger meals, or a snack throughout the day. Many students and their families have the means to replenish these meal plans throughout the semester, and many others do not. A study from the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS) shows that 23% of undergraduate college students experience food insecurity at some point in their college career. To help ease the worry of students for their next meal, Residence Life created the program Grocery Give and Grab back in Spring 2019. Now, our program worries about keeping food on its shelves as well.

Grocery Give and Grab, or G3 for short, started from a campus move-out collection of non-perishables, unopened, unexpired food items. Examples of donatable goods are soups, peanut butter, granola bars, and noodles. When students leave for Winter Break or the Summer, items are collected and then donated to various local groups and people in the community. Such positive feedback was received that an expansion was created to become 5 Residence Life ‘Pocket Pantries’ across campus. The locations range from the Hullabaloo front desk, Commons outside the South Area Office, White Creek Activity Center, Gardens Community Center, and outside the Residence Life Central Office in the SSB. While the Pocket Pantries receive immense support from many on-campus and campus-affiliated groups, it seems food is flying off shelves faster than we can restock.

The goal is to not turn any student away from hunger. Grocery Give and Grab and the 5 Pocket Pantries are not a way to solve food insecurity, but to lessen the worries. If a student is hungry at the moment and needs a snack, we do not turn anyone away from gathering an item from the pantry. What the program needs is a larger supply.

This program is asking for further support from our students, staff, faculty, and outside organizations to help in restocking our pantries and supplying our students with healthful meals. The reason we started this program and added to the Pocket Pantries was to fight food insecurity on our campus. We want students who are on their way to class to not worry about their next meal and to feel some sense of relief. All forms of donation are accepted.

           

How you can help

There are several ways you can contribute to addressing food insecurity on campus and supporting the Grocery Give and Grab program. Firstly, you can consider donating non-perishable food items to the Pocket Pantries located across campus. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in ensuring that no student goes hungry. Additionally, spreading awareness about the program and its mission can help garner further support from students, staff, faculty, and outside organizations. By working together, we can create a community that prioritizes the well-being and nutrition of all students, providing them with the resources they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's make a positive impact on the lives of our fellow students.    

If you have any interest in supporting our program and helping our students, please email Kenya Reeves at [email protected].

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