Dubai's Hannah Mathew shares her secret to scoring 99% in ISC

Gems Modern Academy’s Hannah Mathew of science stream scored a staggering 99 per cent in the CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination) curriculum’s grade 12 exams.

“You can’t expect to get 100 per cent,” she cheerfully reasons during a telephone chat with ‘Emirates24|7’.

Hannah, who is currently with her grandparents in her hometown in Kerala, was genuinely shocked when her aunt and uncle broke the news to her.

“My dad had called my uncle, and he’s the one who told me. I couldn’t believe it. I was expecting good results, but I didn’t expect this,” she says, adding, “In fact, my family is so excited now… even more than me.”

Her aunt and uncle, who own a store in Kottayam, threw her a small surprise last night and had her cut a cake. “We all went out to a nice restaurant for dinner to celebrate later.”

Talking about how she achieved such an incredible score, she reveals that its determination, focus and a clear understanding of the concepts that worked for her.

“It’s not like I spend hours and hours with my books. Even if I spend an hour, I’m fully focused on what I do.”

She adds, “It’s extremely important to practice old exam papers and worksheets. This helps a lot.”

While the Grade 12 boards can be stressful for students, Hannah claims she took enough breaks and let music de-stress her. “I love music, so when I felt really stressed, I would just strum my guitar or listen to music.”

She firmly believes that it’s important to take breaks, and not bury yourself in books. “Extra-curricular activities are important, because it helps you to be well-rounded.”

Hannah confesses that she wasn’t this good in academics in Grade 11, but she worked hard and wanted to change that. “I wanted to do better.”

Currently she’s prepping for the Indian medical entrance exam. “I want to do something for the society. And, I am ready to take on new challenges.”

Hannah adds that her family, friends and teachers were of great support during her journey to the top.

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