It may not be over for everyone, but Leaving Cert 2025 is nearing the end. For many students, like Galway-based Michaela, the exams are over.
She was a great contributor to our Leaving Cert Diary series, brought to you with thanks to the Irish Second-Level Students' Union (ISSU), and we want to say thanks to her for sharing her experience with all of us.
Michaela wraps it all up here...
Finishing the Leaving Cert still feels surreal. After months of juggling school, revision, and everything else life threw at me, I've finally made it out the other side. It’s been intense, emotional, and honestly, one of the toughest things I’ve done - but also something I’ll always be proud of.
When I repeated 5th year, 2 years ago, I honestly never thought I’d make it out the other side. I’m extremely proud of that young girl who took that huge leap, because it paid off. As my Guidance Counsellor Mrs Hardiman always says "we only get 1 chance at life" and I’m so glad I did it.
There were definitely highs. Subjects I’d worried about, like Biology and Ag Science, actually went better than expected - all those flashcards, experiment summaries, and past questions finally paid off. I had moments during revision where things clicked, especially in English and Music. The set works came up exactly as I’d hoped, and it felt amazing to write confidently after so much practice. Even Irish, which I’d dreaded at the start, didn’t end up being as bad as I’d feared.
But the lows were real too - and for me one of my best subjects, Home Ec was one of them. I went in prepared, but the paper just didn’t reflect what I’d focused on. Some of the questions were unexpected, and I walked out feeling deflated. It was hard not to let that shake my confidence, especially with big subjects still ahead. There were also days where I felt completely burned out, like I was running on fumes and still had miles to go. Trying to balance nine subjects, while also representing Ireland in the International Technovation Semifinal and staying involved in sport, wasn’t easy.
But somehow, I got through it. Walking out of my final paper Music, was like finally exhaling after holding my breath for weeks. That feeling of freedom, of knowing I had done all I could, was unforgettable. All the early mornings, late evenings and Saturdays spent in school were worth it.
Now that it’s over, I feel proud. Not because every paper went perfectly, they didn’t but because I didn’t give up, even on the hard days. The Leaving Cert tested more than my knowledge. It tested my resilience, time management, and determination to keep going even when it felt impossible. The Leaving Certificate was the most mentally challenging and overwhelming thing I’ve ever faced, but I know if I can face that then I can face anything.
I’m nervous about the results, sure, but mostly I’m just relieved. I gave it my best and no matter what happens next, I know that’s something to be proud of. Tomorrow is the start of a new chapter in my book. A step into a new door, moving on in my journey. I’m very sad to leave Glenamaddy Community school. It’s been my home for 6 years, the people have been my family and it has been the place where I’ve grown massively as a person. Although I’m really looking forward to my future ahead in becoming a second level science teacher.
Signing off for the final time - Michaela.
If you want to review your exams or read back our diary series, visit RTÉ Learn. Make sure to take time to unwind over the next few days.
The ISSU
Founded in 2008, the ISSU is the national representative body for school students in the Republic of Ireland. The ISSU is led by students, for students.
