As the Post-UTME screening examinations approach, students often face mounting tension and anxiety. Having gone through the same experience three years ago while preparing for my Post-UTME exams at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), I can empathize with the intense pressure candidates feel.
List of 5 Reasons Why Post-UTME Students Are Usually Tensed Up
In this article, I will outline five reasons why Post-UTME students commonly experience tension and provide practical tips for managing this pressure.
- You’re about to enter a new stage in your life: Entering university is both thrilling and daunting. The thought of leaving home, becoming independent, and embracing the uncertainties of the outside world can create mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety, leading to tension.
How to handle this:
Recognize that fear of the unknown is a natural part of embarking on any new adventure. Remember past experiences where most of the things feared never materialized. Acknowledge the normalcy of feeling anxious and confront it head-on, knowing that you have the strength to face challenges.
- You’ll likely be writing the exam in a new environment: If you’ve never visited the institution before, the fear associated with unfamiliar surroundings can add to your tension. This fear is rooted in our natural resistance to change and new experiences.
How to handle this: Focus on the positive aspects of encountering new environments. Consider the exciting sights and experiences that await you. Embrace the thrill of this new adventure, and let it overshadow any anxiety you may have.
- The competition is fierce: In Nigeria, the competition for admission is often intense. For example, at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, thousands of students apply each year, but only a small percentage are offered admission. Such stiff competition can create immense pressure to stand out among the crowd.
How to handle this:
Avoid viewing the Post-UTME exam as a competition, as this mindset stifles creativity and discourages hard work.
Instead, see the exam as an opportunity to open the door to your admission into the university. Believe in your abilities and focus on doing your best, rather than comparing yourself to others.
- It may be your first time writing this type of exam: If it’s your first time taking a Post-UTME exam, you may feel jittery and uncertain about its nature, just like any new exam.
How to handle this:
Review past exam questions to familiarize yourself with the pattern and format. By studying the previous questions, you will gain confidence and alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the unfamiliarity of the exam.
- You barely met the JAMB cutoff, and the pressure to secure admission is mounting
This is a common cause of tension and fear for students who have either barely met the JAMB cutoff or have taken the exam multiple times. External pressures from peers and parents can exacerbate this anxiety.
How to handle this:
Believe in yourself and your abilities. Don’t let others’ opinions define your potential. While societal expectations may matter, ultimately, only you and your faith in yourself can determine what you are capable of achieving. Learn from past failures, adopt new strategies, and approach the Post-UTME exam with confidence and determination.
FAQs
What are the main reasons for tension among Post-UTME students?
Post-UTME students often experience tension due to several factors, including:
- High Expectations: Many students face immense pressure to meet the high expectations set by themselves, their parents, and society.
- Intense Competition: The increasing number of applicants for limited spots in universities creates a competitive environment that can lead to anxiety.
- Preparation Stress: The need to prepare thoroughly for the exam can overwhelm students, especially if they feel unprepared or have not mastered the syllabus.
- Fear of Failure: The fear of not passing the Post-UTME and the potential consequences (such as delaying their education) can create significant stress.
- Time Management: Balancing study time with other commitments, such as work or family obligations, can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed.
How can Post-UTME students manage their stress effectively?
Post-UTME students can manage their stress by:
- Creating a Study Schedule: Organizing a study plan can help students allocate time effectively, reducing last-minute cramming.
- Practicing Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in activities like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help alleviate anxiety.
- Seeking Support: Talking to friends, family, or academic advisors about their feelings can provide emotional support and encouragement.
- Staying Healthy: Maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly can help improve overall well-being and resilience to stress.
- Focusing on Preparation: Engaging in mock exams and study groups can build confidence and reduce feelings of uncertainty.
What impact does anxiety have on Post-UTME performance?
Anxiety can significantly impact Post-UTME performance in various ways:
- Cognitive Function: High levels of stress can impair concentration and memory, making it difficult for students to recall information during the exam.
- Physical Symptoms: Anxiety may manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue, which can hinder exam performance.
- Test-Taking Skills: Anxiety can affect students’ ability to manage their time effectively during the exam, leading to incomplete answers or rushed responses.
- Self-Confidence: Feeling anxious can undermine a student’s self-confidence, resulting in second-guessing answers or a lack of assertiveness in their responses.
- Overall Results: The combination of cognitive impairment, physical symptoms, and reduced confidence can ultimately lead to lower scores, impacting a student’s chance of admission into their desired program.
Conclusion
Preparing for the Post-UTME exams can be a stressful time for students.
However, by acknowledging and addressing the reasons behind the tension, candidates can better manage their anxiety.
Embrace the new stage of life, approach the exam with a positive mindset, focus on personal growth rather than competition, familiarize yourself with the exam format, and have faith in your abilities.
Remember, you are capable of achieving great things. Good luck!
