Day 1 after UAE summer holidays: Why I'm excited to embrace the new school year

Returning to school after a two-month break can be both exciting and challenging. While it might take a little time to readjust, I am confident I’ll find myself back in the swing of things sooner than I think. This morning when I woke up, I felt refreshed and prepared for the new academic year.

Taking time to relax and rest has made me feel open-minded for the upcoming year. I tried to shut down around 8pm yesterday, read a book, and then read the Holy Quran. I also helped my siblings before getting ready for bed.

As I am a Year 11 student, I can anticipate the pressure of senior school and the forthcoming exams that I’ll have to undertake this year. These can often be meaningful life experiences but also daunting. So, the idea is to approach everything with a learning mindset and set small goals so that I feel fully prepared ahead of my main examinations.

My parents have assisted me in becoming at ease with school and feeling ready for the approaching academic year. My father aids me in enhancing my Arabic language proficiency, while my mother assists me with mathematics. Both of them provide support for my academic progress as well as my overall well-being. For instance, in cases where I may not have performed as strongly in an exam, my parents guide me in self-reflection and help me grasp ways to enhance myself and cultivate greater resilience.

• Back to school in UAE: High turnout expected, although return of some students delayed due to soaring airfares, festivals