Most kids these days are really having a tough time preparing for their final exams, right? And let’s not forget — some of you are even burning the midnight oil for your CAIEs.

As a teacher, I have the opportunity to understand students’ minds closely. I want to say this first and foremost that kids, you’ve been through the most challenging part already. Now, it’s time you pause for a moment and appreciate yourself for how far you’ve come — your dedication, your late nights, your quiet struggles; the punctuality with which you have attended your classes, the dedication with which you have completed your assignments irrespective of how exhausted you were, the eagerness with which you took notes and participated in all the class discussions is truly commendable!

Each one of you holds a very special place in a teacher’s heart. Believe me, it’s not the grades you get or the marks you score that leave a lasting impression on your teachers — but it’s the ‘respect’ you show towards your teachers that makes them admire you and also gives their teaching real meaning.

You know what’s the best feeling for a teacher? It’s when, after giving an explanation, we see your eyes brimming with acceptance and understanding. That moment when your faces light up with contentment after all your queries have been addressed, is truly unparalleled. It fills us with the zeal to go above and beyond, and inspires us to apply even more effective teaching strategies in our future lessons.

Because you are going through a tough time, I want to remind you that don’t let the fear of exam consume you even for the tiniest bit. You should not doubt your abilities, or allow negative thoughts to make you apprehensive regarding your exam preparation. You must remind yourself that it’s just another exam; it’s not the first time that your knowledge is being tested or you have to go through a trial.

Gather your courage and hush all the weak voices inside your head that are shaking your confidence. You have been studying hard, going through the grit, leaving no stone unturned throughout the year. So it’s time to deliver your best and prove your abilities.

It’s always a good idea to make sure you’ve thoroughly revised the topics or lessons that are part of your exams. However, don’t keep revising while you’re on the way to school, entering the exam hall, or even while sitting or standing around right before the paper starts.

Doing that can actually make you more nervous. If, for example, you suddenly forget a word or an answer in that moment, your mind might start racing through other topics and that spiral can shake your confidence.

It’s not that you actually forget what you’ve studied, but the anxiety makes you feel like you have. So don’t do that to yourself. Just trust that you’ve done your best and that’s what truly counts.

I know your heart yearns to score an A grade in all your subjects and we, as teachers, pray for that too! But even if you don’t manage to get all A’s, remember: it’s just part of the journey.

Your teachers know that grades don’t define your potential or capture the wonderful human being you are — the one who gave her a reason to smile and continue this passion with grace.

So here is to all my champions, go nail your exams!

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 10th, 2025