Waterford-based student Lidiia tells us how Leaving Cert 2025 went for her in this Leaving Cert Diary wrap-up. She was one of the students who sat the first-ever Leaving Cert Ukrainian exam, and here she thanks her family for all the support.
On that note, we would like to thank her and all the students from the Irish Second-Level Students' Union (ISSU) who took the time to share their thoughts with us each day.
Lidiia leaves us with an overview of a hectic few weeks...
As we finished our final Leaving Cert exams, it felt like even the weather is celebrating with us.
These exams have felt never-ending, so it's a huge relief to finally be done. Now, we can push them to the back of our minds and enjoy the summer, or at least until August 22nd, when we receive our long-awaited results.
There have been many ups and downs for all of us. For me, one of the biggest challenges was taking all Higher Level subjects. It meant putting in that extra bit of effort every day. The toughest part was realising this was the final exam - the last chance to show everything I’ve learned over the past two years. Letting go of self-doubt and trusting in the work I’d done was the real challenge. But once I did, things became easier. Breathing techniques, preparation, and time management also helped a lot.
One key advantage that helped me was having three of my chosen subjects be project-based. Knowing that 30% of my marks were already secured took off some pressure. I really enjoyed working on my projects, especially in History. They allowed me to explore topics I was passionate about and show my skills without the usual exam stress. It’s a different kind of ability, and I’m glad it’s recognised.
I believe the support of loved ones is incredibly important during such a stressful time, and I’m grateful my family has been so supportive and understanding; it truly made a big difference.
One of the highlights of this experience was the opportunity to write blogs for RTÉ about some of my exams. It helped me clear my mind, reflect, and move on to the next paper without overthinking.
To those still sitting exams next week, I would like to wish you the very best of luck. You’re on the finish line! And to those of us who’ve just finished - we did it! Now it’s time to enjoy the summer, without worrying about revision or exams hanging over us.
I’d like to sign off with this quote by Henry David Thoreau: "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."
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.
