things to do instead of studying for exams

things you can do instead of studying for your exams

Words by: jackson erhart-bruce

With exam season fast approaching— *depression intensifies* —and the teaching staff looking even more sadistic than usual, the Hilarian editorial team has finally decided to answer the question that no one’s been asking: What on earth do I do with all my free time? Here are some suggestions…

Take up a hobby

A new hobby can be a great way to procrastinate exam prep, while also letting your friends know that you are a fun and interesting person. The benefit of a hobby is that it comes without that pesky little thing called guilt, allowing you to waste your life away in perfect bliss! Don’t worry, you may have failed your contracts exam, but at least you have become a more emotionally and culturally well-rounded person (whatever that means).

play a sport

Ah, sports. I put to you a situation: You are in the library, ground floor, when suddenly you find yourself craving a coffee from St Raph’s (your seventh that day). Unable to restrain your raging caffeine addiction, you stand up, make your way to the staircase, and start climbing; But it’s too much, with each step you find yourself growing weaker, your legs quivering as they strain to keep you upright. You are panting now, coughing with every step. You are so close but you just can’t make it, if only you had exercised more. Three stairs from the top you crumble, your weak spine (the trait of a law student) folding harder than a first year against confrontation. You are defeated. Does this sound familiar? If so maybe try a sport… or a doctor.

read a book

There is nothing quite like the feel of an Ernest Hemmingway novel in your hands, as you careful tilt the cover to show people that you are indeed an intellectual. Books let everyone, from friends to people in your general vicinity, know that you are smarter than them. My personal recommendations include The Narrow Road to the Deep North, a harrowing tale with the type of cover and width that scream ‘I’m better than you’. However, The Odyssey is also an excellent choice, in the original ancient Greek of course.

Join the AULSS (committee)

If you’re still stuck for ideas, why not apply for the LSS. Thirsty for members and better looking on a resume than your GPA, LSS positions can be a great way to procrastinate assignments— er, I mean further your legal career, in a fun and challenging way.

Editor’s note: smart people might point out that all these activities are technically hobbies, lucky I don’t see many of those around. 21