AT just age 15 Sarah Thompson of St Andrew High School for Girls managed to cop seven distinctions and a credit in her CXC examinations. Known as the class clown, she definitely took one thing seriously and made no joke about her examinations.

Having to resist many months of BlackBerry service and going out with friends, this hard-working individual spent a lot of time studying with friends and music. She then further explained that one of the techniques she applied to her oral examinations was to record herself, play back and listen to make corrections.

Another technique in her exam preparation was to practise many of the past paper questions and to go through many handouts and previous tests given by teachers and once she completed a topic she would test herself by practising the past papers.

Instead of making a study timetable, however, she made a list of all the topics each subject carried and a note would be made beside each topic which was completed.

A bit shocked but ecstatic and happy, Sarah said she knew she would have done well because she worked hard and even though it was stressing at times she further explained that: “In the end, it really tested my strength to see how I’d manage a situation like that.”

With a love for animals, she has her sights set on becoming a veterinarian and politician. Sarah also enjoys going out with friends, listening to music and baking.

She advises TEENs entering fifth form to: “Not take your exams lightly, but don’t overdo it and kill yourself with stress. Keep reminding yourself of the time period you’re dealing with and don’t wait until the last minute to study because if you do, you will be setting yourself up for failure.”