May 1, 2011

After a morning warm-up run, I was ready for round two: me versus the Fourteenth Amendment.  Today has proven to be a bit more fruitful and productive as to the broader concepts of the course, but this remains a frustrating final to study for.  For most finals, working past exams will undoubtedly be the best preparation for the exam.  For this final, though, this doesn't seem to be the case.  Knowing how to answer a previous question simply will not prepare you for how to answer the questions on the actual exam.  Every prior exam question I've read examines the course material from a distinct angle, which is beyond frustrating and anxiety-inducing.  I'm just hoping each prior exam was tailored to the unique discussions that arose during the semester.

April 30, 2011

The tools of studying: caffeine for energy, spill-proof straw for sipping (for the drinking challenged among us), oatmeal for brain power, headphones for drowning out distractions, and snacks.  Today, with the aid of my trusty supplies, I got intimately acquainted with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.  It's a squirrely clause, especially when in the hands of the Supreme Court, which is about as clear on its meaning as the water off the coast of Galveston, Texas.  Unfortunately, it seems the wonders of caffeine, oatmeal, and salty snacks are no match for the inane intricacies of the world of equal protection jurisprudence.