Not to downplay the sheer necessity of the former and the interesting aspects of the latter, I have decided instead to capitalize on this the eve of my last day of IB with a few thoughts about the experience of these exams and how, in every sense of the word, it has been unique.
I began this escapade with a wholly new mindset which, I believe, was an amalgamation of all the best points of my various approaches to each exam thus far. I think it is safe to say that it has turned out to be a both an indisputably challenging journey and a rather fulfilling one, at least for all but one paper I've taken.
For the vast majority of us, I think we can safely say that we've worked ourselves above and beyond. Truly, I have no regrets. Come what may on January 6th, it'll be what I've worked for.
As I put pen to paper for the last two hours come tomorrow morning, I shall strive to focus all that I have left on 3 Economics Data Response Questions. I could not under any circumstances fathom doing this again.
To say it's been draining will be just like saying Warren Buffett's personal wealth is pocket change.
By not staying back after the paper today, I realize that last night truly was the last time I've spent a considerable amount of time in school, studying no less. Like I said before, a quiet school at night will probably be my most lasting memory I have of the place.
So buying a little time of non-academic work before I open my books for the final evening, allow me to direct my thoughts to those who've accompanied me on this experience.
To my tutors, who have gone to great lengths to make sure I didn't allow myself to submit mere above average work and discovering the distinct advantages of the IB course. That I've been able to talk as a student, aide, friend and fellow academic has been a privilege.
To my year mates who have shown as much grit and spark as the best of them, who have shared in the innumerable hours in the library, the benches, and wherever else afforded us light and surface to immerse ourselves in our books, and who have challenged and heightened my awareness of both the usefulness and value of knowledge, in all senses of that word. I do hope I've done the same and have helped as best as I've attempted over the course of this year.
Mr. Ferd once commented that, in order to not wallow in meaninglessness, plans must be made for the 3 days immediately following our last paper. In my case, tomorrow's early paper means that Thursday, Friday and Saturday need to be filled.
As it is, Saturday is well taken care of in Bintan. Friday will probably be pre-trip stuff, and maybe something else at night if plans pop up. Tomorrow night will invariably be spent at some joint as we always do. That leaves the hours immediately after the paper ends. What does one do when all academic effort has been expended, and yet is faced with an entire afternoon of free time?
I shall leave that question to be answered in my next post, which will offer a different tone altogether I'm sure.
In 13 hours, not so much IB as I('d have) B(een)
