Advice

PHYSICAL HEALTH

• Always remember to eat on time—no matter how busy your schedule gets, food should never be forgotten.

• Practice time management to balance your academics and sleep, preventing late nights and exhaustion.

• Know your limits—overfatigue is real, and pushing yourself too hard can take a toll on your well-being. Take care of your body as much as you take care of your responsibilities.

MENTAL HEALTH

• It's great to set goals for the future, but don’t push yourself to the point of exhaustion. Progress is important, but so is your well-being.

• To avoid burnout, strive for balance—don’t let everything revolve around just one aspect of your life. Take a step back when needed and always try to see the brighter side.

• Prioritize your mental health, acknowledge your feelings, and remember that seeking help is always okay. You don’t have to go through it alone.

SUBJECTS

• There will be core and applied subjects, and while core subjects often demand most of your time and effort, don’t forget to save energy for your major or applied subjects as well. Learn to balance your time, effort, and capabilities wisely.

• For major subjects, stay focused and listen attentively—these are the foundation of STEM, so give them your best effort.

• For minor subjects, don’t be complacent. Even though they may seem easier, neglecting them could negatively impact your overall performance.

• Exams usually account for 25% to 30% of your grade, making them a significant factor in your final marks. Be sure to study and review well during exam week!

DEADLINES

• Cramming is often a choice, but sometimes, we all need a short break—even if it means pushing tasks to the last minute. While it may still lead to success, it’s not an ideal habit. It’s always better to complete your tasks first before indulging in what you enjoy.

• Practice time management by creating a routine and sticking to it throughout the day.

• Avoid the “due today, do today” mindset. Most tasks given in advance are usually the most challenging and require significant time and effort to complete properly. Plan ahead and work smart!

FRIENDS

• STEM can be stressful, so make it a memorable journey with trusted and valuable friends. Choose friends who aren’t just there when they need something but those you can rely on, be yourself with, and share experiences of growth and exploration.

• Learn to socialize and, if possible, befriend your classmates. You’ll be together for almost a year, and building strong connections will make the journey smoother as you support and uplift each other.

• Don’t overlook your quiet classmates—they often have the best personalities. And most importantly… befriend a math wizard!

FUTURE

• STEM may be a challenging strand, but it is also incredibly flexible and beneficial, especially when it comes to college entrance exams and scholarships. If you ever feel uncertain about your path, remember that it’s never too late to explore more about STEM—so don’t give up!

• With countless college courses aligned to STEM, choose one that truly resonates with you and makes the most of your knowledge and skills.

• In Grade 12, STEM branches into specializations like Information Technology, Engineering, and Medicine. Selecting the right track can help align your studies with your future college course and even connect to your Practical Research 2. However, above all, choose the path that suits you best and makes your academic journey smoother. At the end of the day, no matter which direction you take, you are still a proud STEM graduate!