PETALING JAYA: Most will be ecstatic at achieving straight As in SPM examinations, but for Aidan Jude Mark, his 7A+ and 2As are just a reminder that he still has room for improvement.
Aidan, from SMK Subang Utama, expressed disappointment at not achieving a perfect 9A+, having obtained only As in Bahasa Melayu and Moral Education.
“It feels a little bittersweet as I had higher expectations but I am still very grateful,” he said when contacted yesterday.
As a high achiever since Form 4, he was hoping to continue his achievements after scoring straight As in his Form 5 midterm exams.
“My midterm results were a mix of A+, A and A-, so I knew that I really could do better and that if I didn’t try my very best, I would be full of regret.
“As such, I decided to pay even more attention to my studies after the results,” he said, adding that apart from tuition, he spent what little free time he had studying.
Aidan said that over-expectation and procrastination were among issues he faced throughout his SPM journey.
Fortunately, he said his parents provided the love and encouragement that helped him overcome his challenges.
“I still haven’t completely overcome my tendency to procrastinate, but I forced myself to do better.
“It helped that my mother never doubted me, nor did she ever pressure me to achieve, and my dad was never the type to harp on my academic performance.
“The encouragement I received from them really helped me push through,” he added.
Aidan said he is looking forward at achieving greater heights in his future studies.
“This chapter of my studies will be valuable as I begin A-levels next week. It will be a stepping stone toward my ultimate ambition of studying law in the United Kingdom,” he said.
His advice to future SPM candidates is to ignore distractions and maintain discipline and dedication in achieving one’s goals.
