Exam Preparation Tips from Young Leader Tristan Anastasia Henry

With the second mock exams scheduled for March 16th and 17th and final exams on April 29th and 30th, Grade Six students are entering a critical phase of their academic journey. This pressure can feel heavy especially when it comes to balancing revision, expectations, and personal time. To offer guidance, we spoke with Tristan Anastasia Henry, 22, Councillor at St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Public Relations Officer, and a student at Texila American University.

Students across the country sitting the second mock exam

Tristan knows firsthand what it takes to balance multiple responsibilities. She shared insights on managing stress, staying focused, and maintaining mental well-being during exam season.

Leadership, Growth, and Balance

Tristan’s journey into leadership began early, shaped by her experiences growing up in St. Cuthbert’s Mission. She left the village at 11 to continue her secondary education at the Apex Education school on the outskirts of the capital city Georgetown. But even while away, she often reflected on how she could give back to her community. After finishing high school, she began participating in local activities and noticed there were only a few young people in leadership roles. Determined to make a difference, she joined the council to serve as a councillor in St Cuthbert’s Mission also known as Pakuri the only Amerindian community in Region Four. She shared, “Two years ago, when I got elected, it warmed my heart that my people put me there because they saw my passion for serving the community.”

Tristan Henry

 Even with her responsibilities, Tristan balances her time carefully, attending community events, sharing information about meetings and annual activities, promoting her community as a tourist destination all while still pursuing her studies at university. Her experience demonstrates to students that structure, discipline, and commitment make it possible to manage multiple responsibilities successfully.

Managing Exam Stress

 Exams can be a very challenging time for students. With deadlines, assignments, and final exams the atmosphere for students is warped into pressure and anxiety. Tristan encourages students to approach this period with calm and intention. She reminds students to focus on their mental health, saying “Student mental health, especially during exam season, you just have to breathe, relax, drink enough water, and focus on your tasks. You can do it.” Tristan acknowledges that while many students feel overwhelmed by the workload and worry that they may not succeed, it is essential that they manage this by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, keeping a regular study routine, and taking time to rest and recharge. She also stresses the importance of support and sharing feelings. “Many young people think they can’t do it. I always encourage talking to a friend or someone you trust. Listening is one of the most important tools.” Tristan emphasizes that by balancing study with self-care, speaking to someone when stressed, and approaching exams one step at a time, students can manage pressure more effectively and maintain both their focus and well-being.

The Role of Support

Having supportive friends, family, or mentors is crucial during exam periods. Tristan says, “It is important to have support, whether your family or a friend. Listening is very important. Be kind, always be kind.” However, support goes beyond providing comfort. It also entails being firm and devising strategies to study consistently and improve in weaker subject areas. Parents play a key role in working with their child and helping to create a healthy balance between study and play. They can help students structure study schedules, provide encouragement during setbacks, and celebrate progress, making the exam journey less daunting. When families support structured routines and take time to celebrate small successes, students feel motivated, confident, and better able to handle the demands of exam season.

Study Tools

In addition to personal support, students can make use of the Ministry’s academic resources to strengthen their preparation:

• EdPal by EdYou FM: Students can access daily lessons for the core subjects and listen and revise at any time. The app allows students to review tricky concepts, catch up on missed topics, and reinforce learning at their own pace. Students can go to the playstore and download the EdPal app to access anywhere and anytime.
• QuizMe: Online practice questions give instant feedback, helping students identify areas of improvement and build confidence before exams.
• MOE Mock Papers: On the Ministry of Education website, Past Grade Six papers and marking schemes  are available to help students familiarize themselves with exam structure, understand the types of questions likely to appear, and practice time management.

By combining emotional support with these resources, students can build the resilience and confidence they need to approach the exam season prepared, calm, and focused.

 Quick Exam Reminders

• Break revision into small, manageable sections.
• Take short, meaningful breaks.
• Use the study tools and resources provided by the Ministry
• Review past mock papers to become familiar with exam formats.
• Confide in your parents/guardians or teachers if you feel overwhelmed about mental health matters.

Remember, preparation is not just about studying hard, it’s about balancing work, taking care of yourself, and reaching out for support when needed. With focus, planning, and self-care, you can approach exams with confidence and ease.