The key to managing stress, I think, is to make sure you get enough sleep as a starter. The lack of sleep can really make stressful situations feel worse--and your brain does not cope as well with information when you are stressed, making it hard to take on board information or to be productive--which can itself lead to stress! Next, I think is making sure to have a healthy diet and to get moderate amounts of exercise, even just a walk around the block is a good start. Getting enough healthy carbs is good for the brain, as carbs fuel the brain, so whole grains, brown rice, whole grain pasta, etc. are good ( and affordable on a student budget).