Emotions run high but first paper gets a big thumbs-up from relieved students

TEARS TURNED to a beaming smile for Cork student Catherine O’Donoghue, overcome by nerves as she arrived to sit English Paper 1 at Coláiste na Toirbhirte, Bandon, yesterday.

Three hours later, the worst was over and she laughed among friends at her earlier emotion.

“I was fine this morning but then when I got to school it just hit me, the nerves. It’s such a relief now to have it done,” she said.

Catherine’s tears prompted nerves among others, but all agreed it was good to get the exams started.

Triona Murphy (18) from Kilmurry, who plans to become a nurse, said the paper offered plenty of choice.

“I was a bit nervous too, but when I saw the paper I relaxed. I was happy with the choices available, there was a nice variety,” she said.

The girls are among 88 Leaving Cert students sitting 2011 State examinations at the Presentation convent school.

They arrived relaxed but focused early yesterday, according to deputy principal Carolyn O’Flaherty.

Julie O’Mahony (18) from Brinny said there was nothing awful on the paper. “The waiting around is the worst, the main thing today was getting started.”

Her friend Emma O’Flynn (18) from Bandon hopes to study science and genetics at University College Cork.

“There was a question on the impact of technology on young people, that was a nice one to get. The overall theme of the paper was mystery, which was interesting. Overall it was fine, nothing too tricky,” she said.

Claire Gaynor (18) from Inishannon and Hazel Carroll (18) from Aherla, agreed the paper was more accessible than in previous years.

“The mystery theme was nice and the question about the impact of technology on young people was good too.

“The questions were relevant to teenagers’ lives and having looked at past papers, this was definitely nicer than others,” said Claire.

Both girls were ready to spend the evening immersed in literature to prepare for English Paper 2, today.

“We were both pretty calm this morning, there is not much you can do for English Paper I but we will be up late cramming tonight,” said Hazel.

Sinéad Kelly (18) from Crossbarry, was happy with the reading comprehension while Jessica Hawks, (18) from Inishannon, completed a diary entry task.

“It was terrifying facing into it but a big relief to get started. The choices were good and broad enough to appeal to everyone,” Jessica said.