As the results for the various boards of education roll out across the city, we hear hoots and cheers rising up from various students, and celebrations all around. But what about the students who continue to stare at their computer screens, shocked and dumbfounded, or those who shut their eyes tight and repeat, “It can’t be. It’s not true”? The ones that hang up their friends’ calls and ignore messages, knowing they will only ask the ultimate question, “How much did you get?"
Dr. Ali Kwaja, founder of the Banjara Academy, a secular, non-commercial and non-sectarian organization, which offers training, counselling, emotional support and an opportunity to serve mankind, says a lot of people have come to him for counselling, regarding examinations. “I look at each one with individuality, as they are all different. I advise
students to go for re-evaluation, since their failure could be attributed to a glitch in the system, but I always warn them not to rely on it, instead move on and reapply for a supplementary exam, which will give them admission in some college, albeit it may not be the college of their choice. The second step is to determine the reason for failure in the subject, and decide whether they want to opt for a different stream.” says Dr. Kwaja.
Here are some pointers from experts.
Indulge in a bit of serious self-analysis
Ponder upon the reasons why you failed. There is a big range of factors that can contribute to failure.
Stop blaming others
You might what to believe you are a victim of circumstance, but stop projecting your shortcomings on to others. Your actions are something you yourself have sole authority over.
Deal with your feelings
However you respond to the news is fine. Whether it is shock, denial, frustration or even anger, your emotions will be running high so it's important to let them out.
Get advice
Talk to your lecturers and find out your academic weak points. You'll find just putting your words into feelings will help you to gain some perspective. So turn to friends, family or even seek professional help.
Start revision as soon as you can
Make sure you have all the required study materials like notes, textbooks and old question papers. Buy a guide if required.
Consider taking time off.
Decide instead if you would like to take a break from the tension and stress and doing something you always wanted. This will require permission from parents or guardians. Favourites include travel, a short course in animation or computers, personality development, public speaking, social service, or taking up a job. A word of caution from Dr.
Kwaja is that this may make it harder for you to continue your education.
- By Poonam Vaidya, Copy-Editor
Meghshala Trust
Disclaimer: This article has been updated and republished from an article written by
the same author for the newspaper Daily News and Analysis in 2010.