Achieving top marks in the IGCSE exams is no small feat, and this year, Nidhana Thamaraiselvan has set an inspiring example. Known for their hard work, focus, and dedication, she not only excelled academically but also balanced her studies with extracurricular pursuits. In this interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with Nidhana as she shared insights into her experiences, study habits, sources of motivation, and the challenges she faced along the way, along with valuable advice for fellow students aiming for excellence.

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Can you describe your overall experience preparing for the IGCSE exams? 

In the beginning, it seemed like l had all the time in the world, so l took things very casually. But the closer it got to March, the more l got scared. It felt like there weren’t enough hours in the day to do everything l had to do.

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What study techniques or strategies did you find most effective during your preparation? 

Though it’s difficult to follow and a little clichéd to say, consistency is key. There will be days where you just can’t do anything and that’s okay once in a while but to make a schedule and regularly follow it is what prepares you for the exam. Erratic studying and only sitting at your desk when you feel like it will leave you feeling unfamiliar with your study material. 

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Were there any subjects that you found particularly challenging? 

I struggled with computer science a little bit. Cracking the book open felt foreign to me so l procrastinated and pushed it back as much as possible. After the exam, l felt like l did badly and that my score would reflect that so l pushed that to the back of my mind too. Though l was pleasantly surprised on the day of my results, if l could do things differently, l would.

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Which subject did you enjoy the most and why? 

I loved mathematics a lot and l still do. From a young age, l was an ardent supporter of the subject so l often did past papers for fun or prioritized my math work over others. During the exam, it was a breeze. It was second nature to me as l didn’t even have to think about the answer; l just knew. Such is the result of repeated practice. 

 

What advice or tips would you give to students who are currently preparing for their IGCSE exams?

Believe in yourself and don’t get scared easily. Though it seems big, the 10th IGCSE exams are just a drop of water in the ocean and there’s a lot more awaiting you in life academically and otherwise so have fun and remember that it’s not as serious as you may think it is.