Summary
Highlights
The video's creator introduces herself and explains that she will be sharing tips on how she succeeded in the Leaving Cert and got into nursing. She completed her Leaving Cert in 2016 and is now studying Children's and General Nursing at UCD.
The second tip emphasizes the importance of simply starting to study, as the full curriculum can seem daunting. Creating and sticking to a study timetable, including scheduled breaks, is crucial to prevent burnout. The creator suggests short breaks, like watching a 20-minute sitcom, to clear your mind. She also stresses the importance of not studying too late and prioritizing sleep, acknowledging her own mistake in neglecting sleep during her Leaving Cert.
The video also addresses how to get into nursing, a competitive field in Ireland. For students who may not achieve the high points required in Ireland, the creator suggests considering the UCAS system to study nursing in the UK. This route often has slightly lower point requirements and can serve as a backup plan. She advises speaking with a guidance counselor for details on the UCAS application process.
The first major tip is to understand your academic strengths. The creator describes herself as not excelling in all subjects, particularly languages, but was strong in science-based subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Home Economics, and Agricultural Science. She advises prioritizing subjects where you can achieve higher grades to maximize points, rather than struggling equally across all subjects.
The final and very important tip is not to burn yourself out. This means continuing to make time for fun, friends, and family, even though the Leaving Cert is overwhelming. While you might not do these activities as frequently, taking days off from studying and engaging in enjoyable activities is essential for mental well-being and sustained effort.
The third tip highlights StudyClix.ie, a website for Leaving Cert and Junior Cert students. The site organizes past exam questions by topic, allowing students to practice specific chapters after studying them. It also provides marking schemes, which help students understand the expected answers and maximize their points.
The fourth tip, an app the creator discovered in college, is for staying focused by limiting phone distractions. The app sets a timer (e.g., 1 hour) during which you commit not to use your phone. This helps maximize study time, as you know you can take a break and use your phone once the timer is up. She uses it for nursing exams and assignments.