There I was stuck AGAIN; this was the same feeling that overwhelms me every year. But this year was different, because if I fail this exam I will not graduate. I sat there panic stricken unable to move. Pressure crushes in on me. I took two deep breaths and look up. I could see the teacher pacing. The classroom was dead silent except for the clock. Tick Tock Tick Tock. I check the clock. Ten minutes left! I clench and unclench my fist in attempt to calm myself. Think! I know I can do this. My hand trembled. I scribbled the first few words that hit me.

“It isn’t my fault…”

I stare blankly at those words. At the corner of my eye, I could see my teacher walking towards me. She was checking on our progress! Dread built up within me. I glance at the four words. Without warning, my hand moves to write.

Hair on my arms stood as the teacher lean in. I peer over to see my teacher’s expression, praying that my work had not brought in disappointment. To my astonishment, she displayed a clear satisfaction! I hurriedly look down at my essay.

I skimmed it through. I felt proud. Now, there’s something I am still worried about. I checked the clock. Two minutes left! I am still writing!

I crossed my fingers. Closed my eyes, and concentrated on writing. I hear the teacher leave. “There’s one minute left, Please check your work. My eyes open hurriedly. “One minute left?” I exclaim.

Everybody looked at me weirdly. I look down ashamed. I tried to ignore everything and continue writing. One more word I said to myself, come on.

“Time’s up! Put your pens down. Please hand in your test paper to me in the front.” the teacher announced.

I finished! I stood up and headed towards the teacher to hand it in.