- Student guidance consultant and a former DSE candidate explain how to relieve stress and manage expectations ahead of receiving exam results
- Always reach out for help if you feel alone or stressed; emotional support is key
Nervous about your DSE results? We get it! Here’s how to prepare yourself. Photo: ShutterstockDays before the release of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) results, many students are anxious about the unknown ahead.
So how can you mentally prepare yourself for results day on July 19? Young Post spoke to a student guidance consultant, Ng Po-shing, and a former DSE candidate to get their advice.
Prepare yourself with a plan
If you feel worried while waiting for your exam results, Ng said it could be helpful to work on a plan or two.
“Predicting your score and planning which institution and programme to study based on your predicted score can help relieve stress,” said Ng, who works for Hok Yau Club, an NGO that provides support for students.
“Planning ahead keeps the candidates’ heads cool and [helps them] worry less.”
He added that candidates should also consider what to do in case they score below their expectations in some subjects.
For example, if you discover that you scored level 2 on a subject, look at university websites to see what options you have. Then, when you have a chance to change your banding for the Joint University Programmes Admissions System (Jupas), make sure to list the programmes that are realistic for your scores.
Ng added that he expected the overall results for this year’s DSE exams to not be too different from last year, as the numbers of candidates were similar between both years and the recent exam was relatively easy. Even so, remember that you cannot control or predict every outcome, so keeping an open and flexible mindset is key. Even the worst scenario isn’t the end of the world
When Fong Ho got his DSE results in 2021, he had to rethink all of his plans.
“I wanted to study for a degree in social work, but I didn’t perform well in the DSE,” the 21-year-old said.
As he turned his eye to sub-degrees, there were no openings for the programmes he initially wanted.
Eventually, the student found an associate degree related to his interests at Hong Kong University Space Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College: applied social sciences in youth and social services.
When Fong chose this programme, his parents were not supportive. But he had done his research and knew this was a viable option for his career.
“Luckily, I talked to some social workers who studied for an associate degree ... This made me feel better and more determined about my decision,” Fong shared. After two years of hard work, he will start a degree in social work at Shue Yan University in September.
“The path I take may be longer, but at least I am on the right path,” Fong said.
He urged candidates to have an open mind even towards the worst-case scenario. Fong explained that expecting the worst could help to manage expectations and emotions.
He added that candidates should worry less about an institution’s reputation and focus instead on studying for a career that they are interested in.
Don’t hold in your emotions
As candidates wait for their results, both Ng and Fong recommended focusing on relieving stress.
“Do whatever you want, from listening to your favourite music to hanging out with friends; as long as you are enjoying it, it helps relieve the stress,” Ng said. The consultant said this would help candidates feel less frustrated and stop obsessing over their results.
Fong added: “I played video games and cooked a lot when I was waiting.”
More tips to help you prep for results day
On results day, if candidates feel disappointed by their results, Ng suggested dealing with emotions first before rushing into backup plans.
He encouraged students to talk to people they trust if the pressure feels too heavy and they need more emotional support.
When you isolate yourself, you might become more stubborn and frustrated when processing your results. Talking to someone with an outsider’s perspective might help you see the situation more clearly.
If you would like help in planning your career, Ng recommended reaching out to Hok Yau Club through its website or hotline, 2503 3399.
Reserve a booking for online guidance here.