The final furlong

With the Leaving Cert less than four months away, now is the time to really be methodical about exam preparation, writes Terry Fahy, principal of Yeats College, Galway

In these months leading up to the Leaving Cert try to stay calm, reflect on how you’ve been getting on so far and be practical about achieving your goals. There is still time to identify what areas need attention and implement a good study timetable.

At Yeats College, one of our primary goals is to instil a sense of motivation in students. You are preparing for an important exam, which will set your course through third-level, and you are also going through a rite of passage to adulthood. That is why we say to you: “Seize your dream and make your ambitions a reality”.

The journey over the coming months is not an easy one, but once the decision is made to take it seriously, it becomes a lot easier. With the right mindset, this journey can be fascinating and exhilarating.

Success is built on little steps and good habits on a daily basis, and the small amount of discipline it takes to follow through on these. If you are reserving time for study and revision, make sure it is quality time. Establish one-hour or half-hour goals and go for them.

Becoming truly self-aware of your situation is a key step to take at the outset. Where am I at and where do I want to be? In keeping to the goal of where you want to be in mind, you can focus on the small, incremental changes that you need to make to get there.

Self-awareness means being honest with yourself and your situation. It takes a heightened sense of maturity to move beyond the comfort zone that may be preventing you from achieving your potential. That is why self-awareness is the key first step to taking control of your future.

Support is integral to the mission of Yeats College. At our two campuses, in Galway and Waterford, we provide a nurturing environment for students who wish to make that mental shift. They are matching their natural curiosity and love of learning with a desire to succeed.

The right atmosphere means the right learning environment. The road to the Leaving Cert should not be a solitary one, and at Yeats College, our committed staff support the students, but the students also support each other.

I often say to my students, cut out your Facebook and Twitter activities, even for a little while, to see what it feels like. The smartphone is a liberating device but it can also be a very diverting one and you need to minimise distractions that might knock you off your course.

❝It takes a heightened sense of maturity to move beyond the comfort zone that may be preventing you from achieving your potential. That is why self-awareness is the key first step to taking control of your future❞

Lastly, but equally as importantly, take time out for physical exercise. It’s a great way of letting your mind absorb some of the abstract information it has been concentrating on during periods of intense mental activity. It might be a walk, a run or a cycle.

The stage is set and the world awaits your performance. You have the time and opportunity, so savour and enjoy it!

Best of success to all,