The exam joke

A Look at Current Events – Loris S. Musumeci

In search of legitimacy, the student must find a crucial period during the year. He must show that he, too, works hard and experiences intense emotions. That life isn’t easy, and that, frankly, you’ve just got to work hard. Exams. That’s what they’re for! They embody the glory of merit, eternal recognition, and admiration.

Of course, these tests, which are not without their difficulties, always mark an important stage in a student's curriculum. Despite the joking tone, there's no question of ridiculing exams, which require hard work, time and concentration. It's a serious, laudable and indispensable matter.

The myth of exam time, on the other hand, is cause for derision. This month, more than ever, we'll be seeing handouts stacked up on bistro tables, libraries packed to the rafters and young people looking serious as they embody the euphoria of cramming. Even among those for whom books are at best a foreign and boring object.

But what is the meaning of examination? It's the meaning of study: making one's way through knowledge. The pleasure of learning what you love, and what will be useful for tomorrow's profession. The baggage of knowledge is undoubtedly the surest and most stable. That's why end-of-year tests are more of an opportunity than a burden.

The anxiety of this moment of evaluation should give way to serenity. The grade does not judge the person, but the fruit of his or her study. So even failing an exam is no big deal. We'll study better next time and succeed. And, above all, we'll try to study the subject we're being tested on without too much fuss.

There’s no need to feel sorry for yourself, since this is a joyful experience. There’s also no need to stuff yourself with sedatives or constantly carry a bottle of water with you. All you have to do is see the exam as a simple test of knowledge. With a smile on your face, why not take it as a joke?

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Photo credit: © Le Figaro