Notes from the end of the journey

Hey there...

It’s me back here again after a long spell away from writing. I have been occupied with school work and some constraints which made me unable to keep up with my writing and my development journey.

The After School What Next event has come and gone and it was a success. I learnt a lot of things about people and organization as I was the Sponsorship Team lead. Working with people opened my eyes once again to people's behavior and true character as they can do the most unexpected things 😂. In all, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.

I am preparing actively for my final exams. You know what that means?? It is fun and exciting ... Feeling that you can't wait to write and get it over with. But in reality, there is fear... Not for writing but fear that you are not reading enough. There is this nonchalant character that I just noticed when preparing for the exams.

The courses aren't so hard or difficult to read but to bring one's attention and focus to study the course takes a lot of work... And it is not even that you are busy or there is no time. Speaking to my level mates show that the same pattern exists in their studies too. I did a little research and found that it is called academic burnout. It is caused by mental and emotional exhaustion from long term academic pressure.

Honestly it is no joke. We once had to combine 3 semesters in one year just to meet up after the ASUU strike and that was intensely demanding.

The Way Forward

The way forward is to break things down. Instead of forcing yourself to study a whole chapter, study two pages of that chapter and take a break and then go and continue. That way you can build momentum to continue.

• Start with the easiest course, as it can set the pace for the others.

• Read in groups. This makes you more motivated to study even if you aren’t reading the same course. I have a friend I read with, and honestly, I was pushed beyond my limits in a good way. Seeing someone that can read for over 7 hours at a stretch... I was really motivated. Thank you 😊 

• Find a friend or course mate to go with for study sessions. You’ll discover it has far more benefits than reading alone.

Finally, as exams are around the corner, you need to eat healthy because of the mental work you would be subjected to this period. Eat well and also do some physical activity. Not so much that you would be too tired to study but enough to get your blood flowing well. And your sleep shouldn't always be the trade off. You should try to get some rest at night even though nighttime is quiet and good for studies.

On a lighter note, it was this same friend who reminded me to make this post when I was feeling overwhelmed. Surround yourself with good people ✨. Writing this actually made me feel better. I would be back after my exams... Or before then who knows...🙃

I wish you all exam success. Pray to St. Joseph of Cupertino for success in examination. It works.

Don't also indulge in examination malpractice.

Better to fail honorably than to pass dishonorably. — Msgr. I. M. Osuagwu

Till next time, good bye.