Advanced Placement (AP) exams have officially started and the pressure is on. Students have been studying non-stop for AP Chemistry, Government, Modern World, Biology, Psychology, Calculus, and Computer Science. The stakes are high, if a student performs well, they have an opportunity to get college credit. These classes are known to be the hardest, so people cram before the test to consume the most knowledge possible.
What is stress? Stress is the body’s natural response to a challenge or a threat. Sometimes it’s good to have a short burst of stress, but when prolonged stress occurs, it could take a toll on physical & mental health. You can feel irritable, anxious, overwhelmed, or even depressed.
Before the AP Government exam on May 6th, a few students exclaimed that they’re stressed out. One student says, “I’m very, very stressed. I’m not prepared for it, I’m not ready.” Anxiety grows when you haven’t studied, especially when the date crawls closer and closer.
Another student, sophomore, Marie Turner, said that she felt pretty good about the Government test, “I studied the court cases, documents, and all of the required topics. Out of ten, I’m feeling like a seven or eight. I really hope I can get the college education I need to hunt and gather for my future offspring and life partner!” She’s setting realistic goals and created a structured study plan. This included Roblox study games, a fun spin on a rigorous task.
The best way to deal with stress is to exercise, take deep breaths, and listen to music. But the most important way is to deal with the stressors themselves. Complete the task or work to solve a goal so you feel more prepared. One sophomore, Max Foltz, says, “If I’m really stressed out, I do deep breathing techniques to relax myself. I try to clear my mind and just focus on what I’m trying to do.”
After a few of the AP exams were completed, a lot of people were feeling confident and how it was easier than they thought. Some knew that they bombed it, but didn’t look too stressed out or like they cared. Exams are difficult so it’s good to know how to face the challenge.