I know your stomach is in knots because it’s almost the end of the year, which means it’s almost time for ministry exams. I know you can’t wait for summer, when you’ll be free to run around and play all day long. But the final hurdle of exams is stressing you out.
Believe it or not, I was your age once! I know how you feel. I couldn’t sleep the night before an exam, and in the morning, I had zero appetite. When I look back all these years later, I see things differently. I wish I hadn’t been so hard on myself.
I thought that getting high marks was all that mattered, but I was wrong. I thought my parents and teachers wouldn’t be happy unless I got straight As, but I was wrong.
Let me give you a bit of advice!
ear-end evaluations give a sense of what you’ve learned throughout the year.
In each grade, students are expected to achieve certain learning objectives, and exams serve to verify the results. It’s important for your school to know what subjects you might need extra help in.
Keep in mind that the final exams you’re preparing for are just one of several factors that will determine whether you pass your classes.
Naturally, I want you to study and work as hard as you can. Aim to do your best—and avoid comparing yourself to other students. You can’t feel confident about your exams unless you’re well prepared, but I don’t want you to make yourself sick over them.
Don’t forget that I’m always here to help if you need me!
What I want you to understand above all is that grades aren’t the only thing that matters. I don’t want you to feel any kind of pressure from me: as long as you’re happy with how you do, so am I.
My main concern is that you try your best and that you learn something over the course of the year.
In other words, I just want to see you make progress!
I also want you to know that you’re surrounded by people who support you and care about your future.
And finally, when you look back on the past year, I hope you feel very proud.