Exam season counseling and support seminar

The Student Dormitory Center of Vietnam National University, Hanoi and the Center for Psychological Support and Counseling, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, jointly organized a seminar to provide counseling and support for university entrance exam candidates on the evening of July 2, 2009, at the Me Tri Dormitory Cultural House.

The program featured the participation of many psychology experts and doctors such as Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu Thu - Head of the Psychology Department, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Thi Minh Chi - Director of the Center for Child Psychology at Hanoi Pedagogical University, Dr. Phan Quoc Viet - General Director of Tam Viet Group...

The discussion revolved around the following main topics: signs of exam stress and how to recognize them, methods for managing stress during exams, guidance on effective study and exam preparation, and guidance on relaxation exercises to reduce stress...

According to Dr. Nguyen Minh Hang (Head of the Clinical Psychology Department), stress during exam season is something most candidates experience, and it's a normal part of life. It's a psychological reaction to life's pressures. Mild symptoms include nervousness, anxiety, and a racing heart, lasting for a short time. More severe symptoms include loss of appetite, insomnia, and declining health and morale, leading to an inability to perform well in the exam. Therefore, each candidate needs to learn how to balance their own psychology and overcome stress. However, Dr. Hang also believes that a little anxiety can be a good stimulant, creating motivation for candidates to study.

Dr. Nguyen Thu Huong (University of Social Sciences and Humanities) mentioned the influence of family on the psychology of candidates, and sometimes the excessive expectations of parents are the biggest cause of stress for their children. Dr. Huong advised that families should provide moderate and reasonable support and encouragement to their children. Parents should absolutely avoid forcing their children to do things they dislike, as well as setting goals that are too high compared to their children's abilities and aspirations. Regarding the candidates, the psychologist advised them to try their best and be content with what they have achieved.

Dr. Phan Quoc Viet delivered a witty and humorous presentation at the exchange session, with the slogan "Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right." To achieve anything, we must first have strong belief and desire. Pessimism and fear are the most dangerous enemies of humankind. Therefore, candidates must have a relaxed and cheerful spirit to enter the exam so that they can utilize more than 100% of their abilities.

During the exchange session, the candidates received on-the-spot guidance from psychology experts on relaxation exercises to reduce fatigue and stress. Many questions from the candidates were also answered directly by the teachers, such as: issues related to diet during the exam, study methods, exam-taking skills, and effective ways to relieve stress immediately.