What would you do with an extra hour in your day?

At 2 AM on the first Sunday of November, most provinces in Canada, including Vancouver and Toronto, will shift the clock back an hour. Many college students will seize this opportunity to study for midterm exams. However, studying late at night or pulling an all-nighter is detrimental to your sleep hygiene. At CISM, we’ve created top tips for international students to succeed academically while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here are some ideas to help you adjust to the time change this November!

Tip #1: Start your day early and get ahead on midterm prep.

Knowing you’ll have an extra hour at night, consider tackling your essential tasks in the morning to get the hardest ones out of the way. According to The Health Site, morning study sessions contribute to a lasting sense of freshness throughout the day. This approach allows you to balance time for both studies and hobbies, enhancing cognitive function, improving memory, and promoting a well-rounded lifestyle!

Tip #2: Treat yourself to a brunch outing with friends.

After spending so much time studying for midterms, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced routine to avoid burnout, which can lead to negative learning outcomes. Many Canadian schools offer resources to help students manage their time effectively, and I was one of those who benefited from this support. Long hours of intense studying can increase anxiety and affect mental health, so it’s better to set a timer for focused study sessions. When the alarm goes off, take a break! Go outside, get some fresh air, and enjoy brunch or dessert with friends or a study buddy.

Tip #3: Unwind by baking something delicious at home.

While some students enjoy outdoor activities with loved ones, parts of Canada may face heavy snowfall in November, making it challenging to venture out. In such cases, consider food therapy to relieve stress! Baking brownies with friends or roommates is a simple way to brighten your spirits during the colder months while staying safe and warm.

In November, most schools in Canada will hold midterm exams to assess students’ understanding of the course material. If you didn’t perform as well as you hoped at the start of your college journey, don’t stress! Midterm exams are just the beginning of your educational experience, and you can use the results as a learning opportunity to help you succeed in future projects and upcoming finals!

Resources: Timeanddate, the health site,