Final stretch approaching for Leaving Certificate students (or: Leaving Cert students near the completion of their studies)
Exam Nervousness: Coping Strategies for Students in the Final Countdown
The Leaving Cert Examinations are upon us, with more than 66,000 students preparing to commence the tests on June 4th. These exams evoke a sense of trepidation among many students, including Jasmine at Tyndall College in Carlow, who expresses anxiety about her business subject. Meanwhile, her classmate Maria-Claire, tackling the Leaving Cert Applied, feels ready, albeit a bit nervous about Irish.
As the finish line nears, it is important to manage anxiety and stress effectively to ensure academic success and mental well-being. Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, emphasizes the importance of maintaining good mental health during this period.
"Focus on what you can do today, not the entire syllabus," advises Prof. Kelly. He recommends sticking to a routine, maintaining regular meal times, and ensuring adequate rest for a calmer mind.
Students at Cross and Passion College in Kilcullen, Co Kildare, attest to the benefits of a well-maintained study routine. Leaving Cert student Sam Moussoulides has found his routine helpful in coping with his exam preparations. Meanwhile, some students, like Charlotte Darby, eagerly look forward to getting the exam period over with.
For the Leaving Cert Applied students, examination begins on June 4th with English Paper One and Home Economics for the Leaving Cert Established course. Over 4,500 students will sit the Leaving Cert Applied examination, which is a two-year practically-oriented programme with subjects including hair and beauty, childcare, and horticulture.
Notably, students also need to keep their CAO applications in mind in the coming weeks, with the CAO open until 1st July for change of mind. It is advisable to check eligibility for SUSI Grants through the studentfinance.ie site.
As the end of the exam period approached, some students like Daniella Oliveira of Cross and Passion College, have already planned their futures, while others, like Aoibhe Toft, are looking forward to a break before deciding on their next steps.
Additional Tips for Managing Exam Anxiety- Identify exam triggers and communicate with support systems.- Space out study sessions and use practice exams to familiarize with the test format.- Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation.- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, ensuring adequate sleep, and having a nutritious diet.- Cultivate a positive mindset and visualize success.- Limit caffeine intake for a calm mental state.- Manage expectations by remembering one's value is not tied to exam results.
In the final countdown to the exams, it's crucial for students like Jasmine and Maria-Claire to focus on personal growth and education-and-self-development through effective learning strategies, while also ensuring mental well-being by managing stress and anxiety. To further enhance their academic success, they can space out study sessions, engage in relaxation techniques, and maintain a healthy lifestyle, as suggested by additional tips for managing exam anxiety.
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