With the HSC written exams beginning on 15 October, senior students are diving into study early, while others are hoping last-minute cramming will get them through.
For most students, this period is anything but exciting. Instead, it’s a time of overwhelming pressure.
One 2023 survey found that a staggering 88% of students experienced study-related stress in the last year. More than half (55%) said they’d been ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ stressed in the two weeks leading up to the survey.
Below, several experts from Western Sydney University share some insights on how students can go into the exams feeling relaxed, confident, and prepared.
Dr Erin Mackenzie, a Senior Lecturer in WSU’s School of Education, has taught in secondary schools and universities, and lectures in educational psychology and STEM education. Her research interests include adolescent online interactions, coping, and the role of psychological and social factors in adolescent girls’ participation in STEM.
She says that in the lead up to the final exams, it is crucial that students maintain healthy and effective study habits.
“It can be tempting to stay up late studying, but this is counterproductive because not getting enough sleep reduces the effectiveness of your study [both that day and the next],” Dr McKenzie said.
“Study that includes practice questions, is spaced out over time, and focuses on different subjects for short periods can be particularly effective.”
Taking care of one’s physical and mental health is important too, says Dr McKenzie.
“Don’t forget to take regular breaks to exercise and socialise to help keep stress levels manageable.”
Dr Natalie Morrison, a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health at WSU, has more than 15 years’ experience working in the field of mental health and psychology.
She says our minds (and bodies) don’t work optimally when they are doing the one thing on repeat.
“So, while study is important, so too is going for a walk, talking to friends and family, having a hug on the couch with a pet, or listening to music for some time out,” Dr Morrison said.
“When we take a balanced approach to study and play our mind works more effectively and efficiently.”
Dr Morrison said the students she has taught have all ended up in the same classroom having taken very different routes, over different time periods, to get to the same place.
“Keeping the perspective that that there are many ways to get where you want to go in life is very important, and that while the HSC might seem to offer a fast-track option, it is just one part of the journey,” she said.
“Exams can naturally create stress and if we don’t make sure to get adequate rest, sleep, nutrition and exercise, this can negatively impact our mental health and immune system.”
Dr Morrison concluded by saying: “Caring for your whole mind and body is really key to being the healthiest version of you as you sustain yourself across several weeks of exams.”
From Monday 30 September to Friday 4 October 2024, Western Sydney University will be offering 24 sessions across 15 key HSC subject areas and providing students with the opportunity to sit a practice exam and deconstruction, with feedback and advice from experts.
Led by a team of highly qualified senior teachers and HSC markers, students will take part in sessions including content analysis, tips and strategies, and a detailed exploration of key syllabus and curriculum areas.
Director, Future Student Engagement at Western Sydney University, Sophie Partridge said the free study sessions are one example of the University’s commitment to the educational success and support of young people in the region.
“Western’s HSC study sessions are designed to help HSC students achieve their best possible results by preparing and empowering them for the exams ahead,” Partridge said.
“This means they can go into their exams with confidence knowing that they are on the front foot and feeling less overwhelmed.”
Danny Saadeh completed Year 12 at Prairiewood High School and attended Western’s free online HSC study sessions in preparation for his HSC exams. Saadeh said the sessions were not only informative but conveniently accessible as he could easily join in from his computer at his study desk.
“Western’s HSC study sessions were extremely helpful as they provided valuable insights, study strategies, and helpful resources that allowed me to understand complex subjects and feel more confident prior to the exams,” Saadeh said.
“I understand that senior years of high school can be stressful, so take care of yourself and utilise available resources like the HSC study sessions.”