On the evening of Thursday, October 17, The Midterm Monster Mash Study Night at Freel Library was a well-rounded event designed to support students during one of the most challenging academic periods.
The study night aimed to alleviate the stress of midterm exams by creating a festive, Halloween-inspired atmosphere that blended both academic and recreational activities.
Thoughtfully curated to provide students with essential resources, the annual Midterm Monster Mash is a one-stop shop for all things related to midterm preparation. In addition to the spooky decorations and light-hearted theme, the collaboration between key campus services—Freel Library, the Writing Studio, the Trailblazer Tutor Center, and the Math Help Drop-in Center—ensured that students had access to the academic guidance they needed in an engaging environment. The availability of tutors across multiple disciplines meant that whether students were grappling with complex equations or struggling to craft a compelling essay, help was always within reach.
Upon entering the library, students were welcomed into a Halloween-themed space, complete with eerie decorations and a wide variety of themed snacks, like candy corn, caramel apples, and pumpkin-spiced drinks. The event organizers ensured that the layout of the library catered to different types of learners: students seeking a more lively, collaborative environment stayed on the main floor, while those needing a quiet place to focus could take advantage of the library’s silent study spaces upstairs.
This consideration of different study preferences made the event accessible to a wide range of students, from those who thrive in bustling environments to those who prefer solitude and silence.
Another standout aspect of the evening was the practical, hands-on assistance offered by the Writing Studio and Tutor Centers.
The Writing Studio played a particularly vital role, as students were able to get personalized feedback on their essays and writing assignments. Whether they were stuck brainstorming ideas or needed help polishing their final drafts, students had immediate support with the expertise of the staff.
Similarly, the Math Help Drop-in Center and Trailblazer Tutor Center provided aid, offering tutoring services for math, science, and other challenging subjects here at MCLA.
Keeping the mood light and encouraging participation, the event included a raffle with prizes, which was one of the evening’s highlights. The chance to win one of three $25 gift cards or a special wellness item added an element of excitement. This raffle, combined with the presence of social media engagement leading up to the event, motivated students to stick around for the entire session, ensuring that they maximized both the academic support and the fun.
In many ways, the Midterm Monster Mash Study Night stood out not only for its festive theme, but for its focus on community and well-being. The event underscored the importance of striking a balance between academic rigor and relaxation, particularly during midterms when stress levels tend to peak.
Studying doesn’t always have to be an isolating or overwhelming experience—especially when it is wrapped up in a supportive and entertaining package like this event was.
The inclusion of costumes, spooky treats, and opportunities to win prizes made the Midterm Monster Mash Study Night feel less like a traditional study session and more like a celebration of learning. This fusion of productivity with festivity created a sense of camaraderie among students, who left not only more confident in their midterm preparations but also with a sense of having participated in a unique and enjoyable campus event.
Overall, the Midterm Monster Mash Study Night was truly successful, fostering an atmosphere of academic achievement, community support, and festive fun. It reinforced the idea that academic success and personal well-being go hand in hand, proving that with the right environment, midterm studying can be both effective and enjoyable.
