By Asma’u Yusuf
This year’s JAMB results are out, and if you’re like most Nigerian teens, your phone has probably been buzzing nonstop with messages like:
– “What did you score?”
– “Did you make the cutoff?”
– “What’s next for you?”
Whether your score was amazing, just okay, or not what you hoped for, one thing is certain—you’re feeling the pressure. From parents comparing you to cousins who scored higher, to friends posting their results online, to teachers asking about your plans—it’s a lot.
But here’s the truth: Your JAMB score doesn’t define your intelligence, your future, or your worth. So how do you deal with all this stress without losing your mind? Let’s talk about it.
The Pressure Is Real—But It’s Not Just You
Every Gen Z student right now is dealing with some form of academic pressure. Social media makes it worse—seeing people post high scores like it’s easy, while you might be sitting there wondering, “Why didn’t I do that well?”
But remember:
People only post their wins, not their struggles.
Comparison steals your joy. Your journey is YOURS.
JAMB is just one exam—not the final verdict on your life.
If your score wasn’t what you wanted, it’s okay to feel disappointed. But don’t let it crush you.
What If Your Score Was Low? Here’s What You Can Do
So, you didn’t hit your target score. Now what?
Option 1: Retake JAMB
– Analyse what went wrong—was it time management, tough questions, or stress?
– Get better prep materials, join a study group, or try a different learning method (videos, past questions, tutoring).
– Remember: Many successful people retake exams before getting in.
Option 2: Explore Other Schools or Programmes:
– Not every university has the same cutoff. Some schools accept lower scores.
– Consider polytechnics, colleges of education, or vocational programmes—they can still lead to great careers.
Option 3: Take a Gap Year (If You Can):
– Use the time to build skills, work, or prepare better for next year.
– Sometimes, a break helps you refocus.
“My Parents Are Disappointed—How Do I Deal with That?
This is one of the hardest parts. Nigerian parents (and aunties/uncles) can be… intense. They mean well, but their expectations can feel overwhelming.
How to Handle It:
Have an honest conversation. Tell them how you feel and what your plan is.
Show them you’re taking responsibility. If you’re retaking the exam, let them see you studying.
Remind them (and yourself) that success isn’t linear. Some people get in late but still do great.
- Mental Health Check: Are You Burning Out?
Between JAMB, WAEC, post-UTME, and school stress, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning. But pushing yourself to the breaking point won’t help.
Signs You’re Too Stressed:
– Trouble sleeping
– Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
– Constant anxiety about the future
– Feeling exhausted all the time
– Snapping at people, getting irritated easily
What to Do:
– Talk to someone—a friend, sibling, or counselor. You’re not alone.
– Take breaks. You can’t study 24/7—your brain needs rest.
– Limit social media. Comparing yourself to others only makes stress worse.
Success Isn’t Just About University.
Society acts as if you don’t go to a “big” university, you’ve failed. But that’s not true.
Other Paths to Success:
– Tech & Skills: Coding, design, digital marketing—many high-paying jobs don’t require degrees.
– Entrepreneurship: Starting a small business (or side hustle) can lead to big opportunities.
– Creative Fields: Music, writing, art—if you’re talented, you can build a career there.
Your future isn’t set in stone because of one exam.
Final Advice: Breathe. You’ll Be Okay.
Pressure will always be there—but you control how much it affects you. Some of the most successful people today failed exams before making it.
So, if JAMB doesn’t go as planned:
Don’t give up.
Explore other options.
Take care of your mental health.
You’re more than a score. You’ve got this.
What’s your biggest worry right now? Share in the comments—let’s help each other out!
Asma’u is a Dyslexia Interventionist, “The Teach with the Louding Voice” and Founder of The Learners’ Den.
