Results day is emotional - here are Ella's top tips to stay calm, be prepared, and make the most of your big moment, whatever the outcome.
"I don't get nervous, but I'm getting a bit shaky" -- My first words the morning of results day.
It's one of those pivotal moments in life, filled with anticipation, excitement, and yes, a bit of anxiety. Having gone through it myself, I've gathered some tips to help you navigate this emotional day smoothly. Here are my top tips for making the most out of your results day.
At GCSE, I opted to have my results emailed to me, mainly to avoid travelling to school. Undoubtedly, a great decision. This allowed me to avoid the inevitable comparisons with others and focus solely on my own achievements. It's your moment to decompress, laugh, cry, and just feel your emotions.
I know, being relaxed is easier said than done, but it makes a world of difference. While I could barely sleep the night before, I tried, and the effort matters. Deep breaths helped me, working as a simple yet powerful tool to keep the anxiety at bay, even for a minute.
Eliminate some of the worry by knowing your options in advance and having the necessary contact numbers ready. Clearing can be a stressful process as you often have to handle it on your own. Thankfully, I didn't have to go through clearing, but I had a plan in place just in case. Some universities don't participate in clearing, so research beforehand. On the day, a lot of people will be in the same boat; you don't want to waste precious time looking for numbers and end up at the back of a long queue.
Treat yourself. You've worked incredibly hard, and regardless of the outcome, you deserve a reward. Do something that makes you happy. Celebrate your effort and know what's done is done.
Here me out - in the moment, it might seem overwhelming, but trust me, looking back on it will bring a smile to your face. It's a unique memory that captures raw, genuine emotions. Whether you're jumping for joy or shedding a tear, it's a part of your journey, and having it on record can be a special keepsake.
In conclusion, results day is a mix of emotions, but with a bit of preparation and self-care, you can handle it smoothly. Whatever the outcome, remember that this is just one step in your journey. You’ve worked hard, and that’s something to be incredibly proud of.
I’m a second year Computer Science student and aim to continue my career being a woman in STEM.
