From Exam Anxiety to Preference Strategies: Full Support for Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS) Journey from Istanbul Gelisim University

As the Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS) approaches, the stress, loss of motivation and preference uncertainties experienced by students increase. Istanbul Gelisim University continues to support students in this critical process. In an exclusive interview with psychologist Nizam Aydın, the topics that students are most curious about are discussed, from exam anxiety to preference strategies, from family pressure to panic situations that may occur on the morning of the exam.

Preference Lists Should Be Prepared According to Strategy, Not Just Ranking

Creating preference lists is one of the most challenging issues for students in the YKS process. Psychologist Nizam Aydın emphasizes that the order of preference should be made not only in order of success, but also according to the student's goals and realistic possibilities. He underlines that an informed decision should be made by reminding that the student may be unhappy if he/she settles in a department he/she does not want.

“Lack of motivation does not mean that you are not ready for the exam”

The loss of motivation experienced days before the exam is common in students. Aydın describes this situation as "a natural part of the process" and says that students should accept these feelings instead of suppressing them.
Stating that it is necessary to experiment and do it again instead of trying to learn new information in recent days, Aydın said, "Success is not only about working continuously, but also about resting at the right time. This is when fatigue is most felt, both physically and mentally. Lack of motivation does not mean that you are not ready for the exam. These emotions should be seen as a natural consequence of an intensely paced process.”

Results in YKS Tests May Not Reflect Real Potential

Stating that the fluctuating test results faced by students during the preparation process can be depressing, Psychologist Nizam Aydın reminds that the main purpose of these exams is to measure attention, time management and stress coping skills as well as knowledge level. The atmosphere of the actual exam day can make it possible for the student to perform at a higher level. For this reason, he emphasizes that low nets should not be allowed to overshadow all the student's efforts.

A Healthy Communication Should Be Established with Family Expectations

Stating that family pressure can be an important source of stress on students, Psychologist Nizam Aydın says that this pressure is generally well-intentioned but creates an emotional burden. He advises students to communicate openly with their families and focus on their own goals. Young people should embrace their own decisions since this process is their journey.