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The lead up to our winter break was the start of IB mocks for the 12th grade class at British International School of Houston. After many months of preparing for this one week of multiple tests in wide windowed gymnasiums, the senior class will embark on one of their biggest journeys in their IB career. This time, although stressful, is shared between the IB students.
Stress is a side effect of mocks; it is an inevitable symptom that can cause all of the preparation a student does to go south. However, stress can be cured by company. IB students find solace during mocks in their friends. Talking and listening to friends can help re-center and calm students during stressful times. As an IB student myself, I know that having a chat with one of my friends is one of my favorite ways to feel connected to others. I have already used the “phone a friend” hotline before mocks has begun. A day before mocks, my dog, File, passed away, which directed me to take a break from my studying and allowed me to reflect upon the situation. It was very difficult to comprehend the loss of my beloved animal friend; however, my friends at school helped me to get through this time.
The solitude of preparation time before mocks can be very trying on the happiness of a student; however, students who feel like they have lost connection can pick up a phone or open a door and have a conversation that can brighten their day. Students at BISH are not only supported by friends, but also by their school community. Heads of Years, teachers, and staff all understand the importance of mocks in the lives of IB students, so the faculty try their very best to make the students feel at ease and confident in their abilities. Reassuring students of their real potential during stressful seasons can cause a positive response on mood and on mock scores. Faculty of BISH also understand that the students have different mindsets regarding mocks.
This mindfulness of the faculty is shown through the sound emails, assembly presentations, and the great advice given daily. This time of testing is stressful, but it causes true friends and caring school faculty to band together with students in hope of achieving the best possible results for all.
Article written by Year 13, Eugenie.
Our Year 13 student, Eugenie, is the School Buzz Editor for the Buzz Magazine. She loves to write, especially about topics that are relevant in society, and instill lasting thought in readers. Writing has always been her outlet to decompress and express thought. She loves being a part of School Buzz, and cannot wait to see what this year has in store!
