Leaving Cert Student Shares Insights on Exam Challenges and Coping Strategies
Leaving Cert: ‘It requires a lot of mental energy to sit a full exam paper’

Image: The Irish Times
Kat Ruane, an 18-year-old student with ADHD and dyspraxia, discusses her experiences with the Leaving Cert exams, highlighting challenges with timing and mental energy. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining her gym routine and group study sessions to manage stress and stay focused.
- 01Kat Ruane is an 18-year-old student preparing for the Leaving Cert exams, expressing concerns about the length and timing of her papers.
- 02She has ADHD and dyspraxia, which affect her exam performance and ability to manage time during tests.
- 03Despite being offered a laptop for exams, she prefers writing by hand as it helps her process information better.
- 04Kat maintains a gym routine to manage stress and plans to continue it during exams to stay regulated.
- 05She hopes to study Economics, Politics, and Law at Dublin City University after her exams.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Kat Ruane, an 18-year-old student, is navigating the challenges of the Leaving Cert exams, particularly concerned about the length of the Irish and history papers. Diagnosed with ADHD and dyspraxia, she struggles with exam timing and mental fatigue, stating, "It requires a lot of mental energy to sit a full exam paper." While she was offered accommodations like using a laptop, she prefers writing by hand, which she finds more effective for processing information. To cope with the stress, Kat maintains a regular gym routine, believing that physical activity helps her regulate her energy levels for upcoming exams. She also plans group study sessions with friends in her economics class to stay motivated. After the exams, she aspires to study Economics, Politics, and Law at Dublin City University, but she finds comfort in knowing that a post-Leaving Cert course is an option if her results are not as expected. Kat's proactive approach and support systems highlight the importance of mental health and effective coping strategies during exam periods.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Kat's experiences reflect the challenges faced by students with learning difficulties during high-stakes exams, highlighting the need for supportive measures.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think is the biggest challenge for students during exams?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



