When We Hear the Word “Exam”
Whenever I hear the word exam, it triggers a myriad of emotions. It’s like a universal reminder that life is unpredictable, and sometimes tests come at the last moment, just when you think everything is under control. As Philip Anthony Hopkins, played by Charles Morse, once said, “Were all put to the test but it never comes in the form or at the point we would prefer does it?”
The Routine Treadmill
My first thoughts are often: “Here we go again.” Every semester is a chapter in the ever-repeating book of exam. There’s a rhythm, a cycle, but never a predictable set point. The anticipation begins with the first announcement of the schedule, and it intensifies as the day of the exam approaches.
The Task of Inquiring for Early Release
There’s a certain anxiety and anticipation when you need to ask your supervisor whether you can leave early if you are done with your test. It’s a delicate balance of both arrogance and submission. My advice? Just be straightforward and professional. If you have completed the exam, inform your supervisor politely. “Excuse me, supervisor, I think I have completed the exam. Is it acceptable for me to leave now?” If not, understand that it’s part of the process to wait and ensure the test is thoroughly done.
Nightmares of Standing Idle
Standing idle and watching students give their exams is a nightmare. It’s a fascinating and sometimes unbearable challenge to maintain composure. I remember Charles Morse’s quote about the unpredictability of life resonating with me during these moments. The expressions and emotions of the students in the exam center are a window into their personal journeys. For a brief moment, I become a student again, reliving those memories of nerves and anxiety, then relief and triumph.
Finding solace in the memories of my own student days, I try to focus on the satisfaction of passing the test. But the truth is, standing idle, waiting for the bell to ring, is a significant part of the exam culture. It’s a reminder that exams are more than just information retention; they are a phase of self-evaluation and reflection.
Looking Forward to the Next Semester
As the exam season fades, my mind turns to the next chapter—next semester. I vow to study with greater dedication this time around. With each cycle, I learn to prepare better, manage my emotions more effectively, and appreciate the journey of learning and growth. Next semester, I’ll study well, and I’ll be better prepared for whatever comes my way.
But for now, the exam cycle continues to loop, a reminder that life is a series of learning moments, some pass and some fail, but growth is inevitable.