Do as much as possible in as little time as I can: that’s been my motto for the past few weeks. I really pulled the socks up to get these exams over the line.

So far, the exams have been good. I enjoyed the first English paper, though the second was trickier. Same with maths: a good paper one followed by a more difficult paper two.

Irish was good, and I liked the essay titles that were broad and easy to expand on, although I found the listening comprehension more challenging than previous years.

And biology, not my strongest subject, was such a lovely paper today, and definitely the most accessible in years.

[ Leaving Cert student diary: ‘I’ve deleted TikTok and Instagram. Phones are a big annoyance for me’Opens in new window ]

I hope to study athletic and rehabilitation therapy at TUS (Technological University of the Shannon), and this degree would allow me to move into a masters in physiotherapy.

I’ve considered studying abroad, as the Netherlands offers a similar course and it would be delivered through English.

But I think I’d prefer to stay here. I’m from the area, TUS is a good university, and I could keep up my part-time job in the local Dunnes Stores.

I love sports and I play for the Garrycastle GAA club, so I could keep that up if I stay local.

[ Leaving Cert Irish paper two: Sighs of relief as predicted topics make for approachable examOpens in new window ]

Of course, the cost of living away from home is huge, and accommodation is so hard to find, so being at home would be much more affordable.

I’m doing all higher-level subjects, except for maths.

I’m already at a disadvantage. At the start of fifth year, I did higher-level maths because I wanted the chance to get the 25 bonus points. But I quickly realised I would have to neglect my other subjects, especially the ones I’m strong in.

It wasn’t an easy decision to drop to ordinary level and be 25 points down, just because I have strengths other than maths.

I ultimately decided it made more sense to focus on the subjects I actually liked, but I know so many do higher-level maths, struggle with it and fall behind in their other subjects. I just don’t understand who this system serves.

Still to come: Spanish, agricultural science and construction studies. For those last two, I’ve already done a significant chunk through project work.

Nearly there. I’m aiming for as high as I can get – then it’s time to put the feet up, relax and go on our Leaving Certificate Albufeira trip.

– Killian Keegan is a Leaving Cert student at Athlone Community College