As we look forward to meeting a new group of eager young girls tomorrow who are wondering whether St Louis Dundalk is the place for them, we are going to catch up with our Class of 2017. In the next week or so we will post some words of advice from our high achievers. They will share their experiences and offer an insight into how to attain the highest of points at Leaving Cert.
First up is Eimer Magee, daughter of Frank and Jean, who is now studying Science in UCD. This is her story.
“The journey that led to the Leaving Cert was daunting but one I was eager to travel. In Fifth Year I really figured out what worked for me and what didn’t. I tried to stay on top of my homework, class tests and exams. People had spoken about studying before school so I tried that but I swiftly learned that I valued my sleep too highly!
My style is to write notes out repetitively as well as answers for exam questions which I would file away for later use – I looked over these in the run up to exams and it was a relief to already have them answered. I would highly recommend keeping your bedroom and study environment different. When I went into my study I was in the homework and study mindset, and when I went into my bedroom I could relax.
In Sixth Year I really knuckled down as I knew what I wanted to achieve. I got a lift home most evenings and as soon as I got in the door I’d change out of my uniform and go into the study. At first I did homework and then studied but I realised it was more effective to study first and then do homework. I’d tackle the difficult tasks first so I couldn’t put them off.
If your mind gets fuzzy and you stop retaining information go outside and get some fresh air. I rekindled my interest in basketball throughout 6th year and went for more walks than I can count. After this I always felt fresher, ready to work again. I usually stopped around 9 or 9.30.
On Fridays I tried to get my homework out of the way so I could free up time at the weekends for study and down time. My final words; it’s a marathon not a sprint. Learn things as you come across them in class and then you will just have to ‘top up’ study these and refresh them. Cramming is not the answer!
