I’m really anxious about the Year 12 exams… In my country, we refer to them as the HSC, and while I’m not sure if that’s what others call them, I’ll stick with that term for now. Even though I’m only in Year 10 this year and have a couple of years until those final exams, I can’t shake this fear. I’m already struggling to manage my current study load, so how am I supposed to prepare for something as significant as the HSC?
I find myself procrastinating, which leaves me feeling overwhelmed and unproductive. On top of that, I work from 6 to 9 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and when I get home, all I want to do is sleep instead of studying. This only leaves me with about three days a week, not counting weekends, which I usually spend on household chores. I’m terrified of failing or getting a low mark that could hinder my chances of going to university, and honestly, I don’t have a backup plan. It’s university or bust for me, as I’m not particularly skilled at anything and my academic performance has been average.
I aspire to pursue a career in criminology or forensics, which requires a university degree, and I’m at a loss for what else to do. Lately, I’ve been really battling procrastination, and I haven’t been as productive as I know I need to be. It’s not just the immediate workload; it’s the fear of not doing well, not getting into the right subjects for Year 11 and 12, and then worrying about underperforming in those subjects too. I understand that this may seem premature and that my worries might sound trivial, but all my teachers keep emphasizing the importance and difficulty of Years 10, 11, and 12, and it just adds to my stress. I really don’t feel prepared to handle all of this.
Anyway, if you’ve read this far, thank you! 😊
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious about exams, especially when they seem so pivotal for your future. The HSC is a big deal, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling the pressure already, even being in Year 10. Remember, it’s okay to be scared; acknowledging your feelings is an important first step.
Procrastination is a common struggle, especially with everything you have on your plate. It might help to break tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead of thinking about studying for the entire HSC, focus on your current assessments. Set aside short study blocks during the week, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes each day. You could use timers (like the Pomodoro technique) to keep yourself focused.
As for managing your time with work and other commitments, maybe you can create a weekly planner. This way, you can allocate specific times for studying, working, and even relaxing. Finding small pockets of time can make a big difference over time.
Last but not least, try to talk to others about how you’re feeling—friends, family, or even a teacher you trust. They can offer support and may have some great study tips or insights to ease your worries. And remember, one step at a time! You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. You’ve recognized the importance of this journey, and that’s a strong start. You’ve got this!