BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

OUTSTANDING students during last year’s public examinations attributed yesterday their success to time management and sheer personal determination.

Khairol Sharifkhan Khalidkhan, a graduate of Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (Maktab Duli), told The Brunei Times that he always ensured that his time was well-spent throughout the course of his two years doing A-levels.

Khairol, who received “Top 10 in the World” and “Top in Brunei” for Sociology awards yesterday, achieved two A*s and one A in the 2014 Brunei-Cambridge GCE A-Level examinations.

The student said that he originally started sixth form with three O-levels, and that motivated him to work hard to get better grades in the A-levels.

“I made time to play, but I studied as well. I tried to make studying the bigger priority,” he said.

Khairol shared that he will be going to university in the United Kingdom in September.

“A-levels requires a lot of hard work – plenty of it – and determination. On that, I would urge fellow students to always remember the Japanese proverb of “fall down seven times and stand up eight,” said Khairol.

Abdul Mu’iz Hj Omarali, who received “Top 10 in the World” and “Top in Brunei” awards for Computer Science, said that it was imperative for studying to be carried out with interest and dedication, and that “it should not be forced”.

“I think it’s really important that you don’t fill your schedule with just studying, and to ensure that you have other extra activities so that you won’t be over-pressured or stressed,” he said.

In terms of managing time well, Abdul Mu’iz suggested setting aside specific periods for each subject throughout the week.

“Perhaps make sure that study and homework time is only at night, for example, and leave your afternoon free to relax,” he said.

Meanwhile, Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College (Maktab Sains) student Lim Jia Yi reminded fellow students about the importance of early preparation and constant revision for exams.

Lim received 8 A* and one A in last year’s GCE O-Level examinations, and was given “Top in the World” and “Top in Brunei” awards for Principles of Accounts (POA).

“Although it may seem like you have a lot of time before your exams, do not study last minute. Instead, prepare wisely by doing past year questions,” she said.

Top in Brunei for AS Level History award winner Dk Nuha Najihah Fatimah Pg Ismail shared similar sentiments, acknowledging that A-level is difficult.

“It takes a lot of your time, and you might end up lacking sleep, but it’ll all be worth it in the end,” she said.

Dk Nuha encouraged students to take advantage of different education materials in their studies, including the Internet, and to never shy from asking teachers or peers any questions they might have.

The Brunei Times