Written by Devin Miller, Relate Contributing Writer

It’s the day of your big exam, and you cannot possibly squeeze any more bits of information into your brain. Even after preparing ourselves for days, some of us feel we need that extra bit of luck before writing our name on the test. Find out campus traditions and personal rituals students rely on for that extra bit of luck!

Campus-wide traditions

University of Maryland, College Park, MD- When students are in need of good luck, they go to the nearest Testudo statue and rub his nose, or leave him gifts. These Testudo turtle statues, the University’s mascot, can be found all over campus. “Before almost every exam or big event I rub Testudo’s nose in front of the library,” Lauren Phifer, 19, said. During finals week, the Testudo in front of McKeldin library is covered in “gifts” from students in order to receive good luck on their tests.

“Last semester, I left every to-go coffee cup I had during finals week!” Hannah Garland, 19, said.

Testudo covered in “gifts” during finals week

Texas A&M, College Station, TX- Students at Texas A&M leave pennies at the feet of the Lawrence Sullivan “Sul” Ross statue, the president of the school during the 1890s who is given credit for keeping the school from closing. The legend states that Ross offered to tutor students, and in return asked for a “penny for their thoughts.” Over the course of exam week, the statue, located in Academic Plaza, is covered in pennies left by students asking for luck.

Personal superstitions and rituals

Is it what you wear?

“As a dance major, I make sure to wear a new pair of tights with my favorite leotard, the sparkly earrings I used to wear for dance competitions, and I put my hair in a tight bun for each performance exam.”- Maura Keenan, 19

“If it’s a major test, I wear a necklace my dad got me from Aruba.”- Zoee Brubaker, 14

Is it what you use?

“I always use an extra inky pen- it makes me write neater than regular ones.”- Kelly Martineau, 19

“If I did well on one test with a certain pen or pencil that I used, I use it again and again hoping for the same result.”- Alyssa Flocco, 19

Is it how you prepare?

Many high school and college students create a playlist of their favorite songs to get pumped before an exam. Play these songs while you’re getting ready to go to school, or listen to them on your iPod while walking to class. Need to calm your nerves? Try Hannah’s technique: she listens to classical piano before she takes a test.

No matter what, setting aside the time to study and getting a good night’s sleep are the best ways to ace a test. These rituals and traditions we follow give us that extra boost before sitting down to start the exam.

Tags: campus-wide traditions, College Park, good luck traditions, Lawrence Sullian Ross statue, mascot, superstitions, Testudo turtle, Testudo turtle statues, traditions, University of Maryland