As students across the globe face the pressures of academia, one freshman at Johns Hopkins University recently shared her experience of taking her first college exam, shedding light on the emotional and psychological challenges many encounter. On October 20, 2025, Catherine Chan, a first-year student studying Molecular and Cellular Biology, reflected on her journey through the stress of exam preparation and the lessons learned from the experience.
Sitting in the lecture hall, Chan described a whirlwind of emotions as she awaited the distribution of her exam. While she appeared calm on the outside, internally, her heart raced and her mind buzzed with anxiety. With the exam papers finally reaching her peers at the front of the hall, she felt a surge of jitters, unsure whether they stemmed from typical pre-exam nerves or the energy drink she consumed earlier.
The moment was surreal for Chan, who noted that just a short time ago, she was drafting applications to attend university. Now, she was facing the reality of being a student at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. The weight of this realization was heavy, particularly during midterm season, when the excitement of beginning classes often gives way to the stress of performance evaluation.
Chan’s first exam was in Organic Chemistry, a course notorious for its rigorous content. Despite her aspirations for success, she battled persistent self-doubt. Questions swirled in her mind: Had she practiced enough? Did she understand the material thoroughly? Had she rested adequately before the test? Such uncertainties led her to contemplate her worth, questioning whether she was “enough” to meet the expectations set by herself and her institution.
In her reflection, Chan pointed out that while advice often encourages students to maintain an optimistic mindset and to view grades as a mere reflection of knowledge, this perspective can be overly simplistic. She acknowledged the reality that exams do hold significance in assessing academic progress and that self-doubt is a common companion in the student experience.
“To rise above doubt, I aim to accept its presence rather than defeat it,” Chan shared. She emphasized the importance of trusting the process and embracing uncertainty. This approach allows her to cultivate a sense of peace as she navigates the complexities of her academic journey.
The challenges of taking exams are not unique to Chan; they resonate with students everywhere. Her experience highlights the need for open conversations about mental health and the pressures faced in higher education. As she continues her studies, Chan anticipates more exams ahead, recognizing that each one will contribute to her evolving relationship with stress and success.
By sharing her story, Catherine Chan not only reflects on her personal experiences but also opens the door for others to acknowledge their own struggles. The path through higher education is often fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. As Chan embraces her journey, she reminds her peers that they are not alone in their experiences.
