For many of you, the Bar Examination is the last test you have to take. It is probably the longest, most grueling and comprehensive examination you will ever have to take. We know that you have been studying hard to pass the examination and we are proud of you. At this time, we just want to wish you the best of luck and give you a few tips to help you make it through the final few weeks.
The Week Before The Examination
Spend the last full week before the examination reviewing your materials and doing practice examinations under examination conditions. Double-check your hotel reservation and pack over the weekend. Plan on bringing all of your materials for any last minute anxiety attacks and the sudden need to look something up. Bring comfortable clothes and shoes and dress in layers so that you will be prepared for any temperature. Also, make sure that you have a watch, high-energy snack food, and extra pencils. Do not forget your admission ticket. Do not plan on studying round the clock. At this point, you have learned everything you can and your goal is to relax.
Examination Week
This is not the time to study around the clock. In fact cramming will probably do you more harm than good at this point. At this time, you either know it or you don't. Opt instead for an easy schedule and try to relax. Do not drive yourself crazy talking to others about how hard they studied. On Monday, drive to your hotel, meet a friend or two for dinner (only if they will not stress you out) and get in early for a good night's sleep. On Tuesday, get up, eat something, and conquer the Essay Examination. At lunch and after the examination, do not get caught up discussing the examination with others. Tuesday night, eat dinner and get a good night's sleep. Do not go over the previous day's examination questions; just mentally prepare yourself for the next day. Wednesday, get up, eat something, remember that it is half over, and conquer the MBE. Wednesday evening, celebrate - you survived!
After the Examination
Do not be surprised if you are physically and mentally exhausted. This is normal and a sign that you gave it your all. Reward yourself for making it through the examination. Celebrate, sleep for a week, do nothing, go on vacation. Just do whatever makes you feel good. Then get back to a normal life. Do not second guess yourself while you are waiting for your results, and try not to compare your answers with others: it will only set you up to make you feel as if you failed. You have a long wait for your bar results. The sooner you get back to a normal life, the faster the wait will go. If you do not have a permanent job, come by the Career Developmnet Office to check job postings or go on Presto to check job postings, review your resume and put together a job search strategy.
Good luck!
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