Make the most of your opportunity
It might be hard to imagine, but HSC students you have been given a gift. So treat this opportunity as a gift and make the most out of it. We live in a fallen world and not everybody has equal access to education.
The things you learn from science, to maths, to arts, to the humanities are a reflection of the intricacies of the world which God has created. Don't abuse the things which God has given you, but use them well. Reflect upon your motives and do it all for Him.
Remember your identity
Remember your status as a child of God. You are the child of the Creator of the universe. Remember HSC students, you aren't defined by a number or even the course that you may end up doing.
The HSC is indeed important, but it isn't the final verdict on how your life will turn out. Most people don't stick with the first degree they get into (they might be unsatisfied, or they work to transfer into a degree they wanted originally and didn't get as an offer). Many people end up working in an industry unrelated to their degree after they graduate.
But ultimately your identity isn't found in your ATAR, or course, or career, but it is found in God. So rely on Him during your exams, and trust that God will work with whatever result you get.
Your emotions can be wrong
The HSC can indeed by a stressful time. In the midst of the all the stress and anxiety, it can be very easy to feel disconnected and distant to God. Emotions are an integral part of what it means to be human and shouldn't be ignored.
But remember, HSC students, your emotions can be wrong. In times when you feel as if God isn't there, remind yourself of what you know – that God is there, and that He has shown His faithfulness to His people through Jesus.
He is your Father and you can come to Him in prayer. So, "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." – Philippians 4 verse 6.
So some final words to all you HSC students out there: do the best that you can, but do take some breaks. Study well, sleep well, rest well. All the best for the remaining exams!
Anton Zhang is studying aeronautics and arts at the University of Sydney, he is part of a family of four, his hobbies include music, hiking and fencing. He is an active part of the Christian youth work at the Padstow Chinese Congregational Church.
Anton Zhang's previous articles may be viewed at
www.pressserviceinternational.org/anton-zhang.html