As the countdown to Results Day nears, you might find yourself grappling with a whirlwind of feelings. The mix of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety is all part of the process. However, it’s essential to manage this anxiety to ensure a smoother experience.
Having a trusted friend, family member, or teacher by your side on Results Day can help mitigate nerves and offer invaluable support and reassurance. They can provide guidance if things don’t go as planned, discuss alternative options, and assist with practical matters like organizing documents and contact numbers, especially for A-Level students navigating university Clearing.
It’s crucial to focus on your personal achievements and progress rather than comparing your results with others. Remember, everyone’s academic journey is unique, so judge yourself and your results by your own standards, not by those of others. If being around peers causes unnecessary stress, open your results in a more private setting, such as outside or in your car.
Avoiding social media during Results Day can help reduce anxiety, as it often intensifies the pressure.
While it’s not always possible, planning for various scenarios can help you stay prepared and avoid feeling caught off guard if you don’t achieve the exam results you hoped for. Having a plan in place provides structure, reduces stress, and turns Results Day into a series of next steps, regardless of the grades.
Ensure you know when and where you’ll be collecting your results, and bring essentials like a notebook, pen, and a fully charged phone (with a charger) for making important calls.
For A-Level students, a stressful Results Day can be especially challenging when a university place is at stake. With a conditional offer, you’ve likely been eagerly awaiting the news. A bit of planning can help manage Results Day anxiety and keep you in control.
Here are some tips to help you prepare:
1. Share your feelings with a trusted individual, as discussing your concerns can provide relief and make everything seem more manageable.
2. Try not to make hasty decisions or settle for a course you’re not truly interested in due to panic. Talking through everything with a professional who understands your situation can help lessen the pressure, reduce Results Day anxiety, and aid in choosing the right path for you.
3. Remember to take care of yourself during this emotionally and physically draining time. Get enough rest, eat well, and prioritize self-care. No matter the outcome of your results, maintain a positive outlook and avoid catastrophizing. Remember that this is just one milestone in your journey, and countless opportunities await.
Good luck, and remember—you’ve got this!
Molly, a first-class graduate from the University of St Andrews with a degree in biology, serves as the Senior Project Manager at PMT Education. In this role, she manages SEO, digital content, and media, as well as coordinating PMT Courses.
