Comprehension: Examination Atmosphere

          The end-of-session examination was usually a tough one for us. As the last sessional examination approached, tension and anxiety were mounting. Each student became seriously married to his books. This was one period in the college compound when students hardly acknowledged compliments from their mates. It is not out of hatred but because of serious concentration on academic work. It was a period when all partying came to an abrupt end. All gallivantings and gyrations ceased. No more playboyism – Boyfriends? – no, not at this crucial time – Girlfriends at this time? – no, too – for most boys reasoned that success has many relations but failure has none. Every student wanted success. After all, that is the primary purpose of being in college. Everybody wore sober and somber looks. From morning till evening, from night till morning, every student was buried in his books. It is serious swotting. Quietness descended on the compound.

          At last, the examination day came. Students were in the hall writing profusely as if they would not write again. Suddenly a student fainted and because he was one of the “gyrators” before the examination period, his mates thought he was pretending. It was “examania”. The authorities, did not however take it lightly and it took a team of doctors about one hour to resuscitate him. His mates were not aware that he had been busy swotting for the three days running and without visiting the dining hall. Eventually, the examination ended and the students heaved a sigh of relief.

          It was then a period of waiting, waiting for the outcome of the examination. The ordeal of waiting is better imagined than experienced. It was a period when the nerves were on edge. Students monitored the movement of teachers as they marked their scripts and collated the results – for information, hints, tit-bits, here and there. Eventually, the results were released and I was one of those who came off with flying colours. Obviously, my joy knew no bounds. All is well that ends well.