30 Aug 2020

So trials turned out to be a complete flop. You studied your heart out, crammed and cancelled plans. Look, sh*t happens. But it’s not too late to get back on track.

Here’s how. 

 

Accept your results

It’s easy to get upset and feel like the world is ending, but it definitely isn’t. Have a cry, have your dramatic moment, but then move on. 

It's also easy to blame your teachers and the exam itself, but taking responsibility here is key. How many Sundays did you spend hungover? How many hours did you spend watching Netflix rather than studying? There’s nothing you can do about it now other than use it for what it is, a learning curve!

Get your head in the game

In the words of Troy Bolton, it’s time to get ya head in the game. 

Find out what studying style works best for you and stick with it. For me, I memorised the syllabus by using funny acronyms and songs and did every practice exam known to man. But everyone is different so step to it and find what does and doesn't work for you!

Work together

Apologies for the High School Musical references, but we're all in this together. Trials can often seem be a bit competitive, but the fact is the better your cohort does in the HSC exams, the better you'll do.

Your classmates want you to do well so that they do well too. So swap notes, help each other out and bring each other up. I found the best way to learn was to teach someone else the content. 

Prioritise

I know, I know. You are sick of hearing this word. ‘Start by prioritising your weaker subjects’ is the most standard advice. 

But I’m telling you that you need to prioritise your life instead. Make a calendar that gives you allocated time to study, socialise, watch TV shows, exercise and go to that 18th birthday. 

The best thing I did during my HSC was continue to work at my job and play sport on the weekends. It forced me to step away from my desk, and remember that there is a world outside of school and the HSC.

It’s all about balance and knowing when to take a break.

You're going to be fine

You seriously are.

Trial marks aren’t the be-all and end-all and tbh neither is your ATAR. 

Remember that exam results don't define you and to take care of yourself during this stressful time. But don't worry, it'll all be over soon!