What to do when academic results does not match expectations?
Is it time for the exam results to be declared? Well, the stress levels begin to mount not just for the students, but also for others around them. Especially in light of the exorbitantly high cut-offs which are being set today by most colleges and universities, for almost each and every stream.
Such competitive environments further contribute to an enormous amount of pressure associated with the results, as the students worry about the impending doom associated with their college admissions.
The following are some of the points which students could keep in mind when their exam results have not been as per their expectations:
education is not defined by your grades
Despite the significance attached to the ‘marks’ you obtain in your exams, it is essential to remember that education actually does go beyond this.
A more accurate evaluation of the value of education would be based on your knowledge and learning, and your ability to apply this knowledge to practical use.
evaluate your efforts, not your results
Remember to focus not on the final grades, but also to pay attention to the effort you put in behind the exam. Even if the results do not seem to be proportionate to your results, do keep in mind the influence of various external factors, and therefore make a realistic evaluation of your efforts.
Be realistic
Furthermore, your expectations from yourself should be realistic, keeping in consideration the practicalities and the role of external factors as well. While it is good to be ambitious, but one should always remember to be reasonable and have expectations in accordance with one’s potential abilities.
Think of the next step
After the exam results, it is of no use to spend time mulling over the grades, exchanging notes with your peers. If you feel you haven’t done well, give yourself a break.
Instead, it makes more sense to let go of the bygones, and focus on the next step afresh. Consider the possibilities now open to you, and try and plan your next steps of action.
Career counselling
Be open to seeking the help of a career counsellor, to help clear your confusions.
Based on knowledge of your aptitude, interests, and personality traits, you would be better equipped to make a career choice most suitable to your predisposition.
Talk
Remember, it is normal to feel anxious during exam results and admissions.
But you must talk about the way you feel. You could share your feelings with your friends, your parents, teachers or a professional. If you find it difficult to cope, remember there are always people around who can help you.
Career is only one part of your life
Last but not the least, our life does not depend on the success of our career choices.
In fact, our education and career form only one part of our lives, and we should remember not to let this get blown out of proportion, given the wider perspective.
Ten years down the line, there is an extremely low likelihood of anybody remembering even a year lag, if the person is happy and settled in their life.