The Final Stretch
Daytime Duties and Nighttime Studies
As the exam days drew closer, Maria and her group continued to balance their time between studies and church activities.
During the day, they participated in various tasks assigned by the church. Whether it was cleaning the chapel, organizing religious books, assisting in charity work, or helping in the church's kitchen, they made sure to contribute.
Maria, Catherine, Emily, and Kate were especially active in teaching catechism to the younger students. They enjoyed explaining religious principles, as it also helped reinforce their own knowledge.
At night, their focus shifted entirely to studying.
Instead of gathering in one fixed location, they decided that each nun's room would be used on a rotating basis, ensuring everyone felt included.
Kate: (grinning one evening) "So, who's hosting us tonight?"
Emily: (smirking) "I think it's Sophie's turn."
Sophie, who had joined their group recently, sighed dramatically.
Sophie: "Alright, fine. But don't expect luxury—I'm not as good as Maria when it comes to organizing."
Everyone laughed.
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A Comfortable Study Atmosphere
That night, they gathered in Sophie's room, which she had cleaned thoroughly in preparation. She had also arranged some biscuits, tea, and fruits for everyone.
Rachel: (picking up a biscuit) "I could get used to this. Study sessions with snacks!"
Maria, sitting cross-legged on the floor with her notebook open, smiled.
Maria: "As long as we actually study and not just eat."
Everyone chuckled but got serious as they opened their books.
Kate: (pulling out a paper from her bag) "Before we start, I have something important."
She unfolded the exam schedule she had received that morning and placed it in the center for everyone to see.
Emily: (leaning in) "Oh, finally! Let's see what we're up against."
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Exam Schedule for 1st and 2nd Year Nuns
15th May: Vows and Religious Life
16th May: Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience – Theory
18th May: Pastoral and Evangelical Role
19th May: Serving the Community – Practical Evaluation
21st May: Theological Studies – Gospel Interpretations
23rd May: Daily Practices for Strengthening Vocation
24th May: Biblical History and Catholic Teachings
26th May: Spiritual Leadership and Public Speaking
Maria read the schedule carefully, nodding.
Maria: "This is actually manageable. We only have a few topics left to cover."
Catherine: (sighing with relief) "Thank goodness! I was afraid they'd overload us with last-minute subjects."
Emily: (pointing at the list) "I think the biggest challenge will be the practical evaluation on the 19th. We'll be observed while performing community service."
Kate frowned.
Kate: "That means no written test that day, right?"
Maria nodded.
Maria: "Right. But remember, our actions will speak louder than our words. The evaluators will be watching how we interact with people, how we assist in church duties, and how we apply what we've learned."
Rachel sighed.
Rachel: "So basically, no room for mistakes."
Maria gave her an encouraging smile.
Maria: "We'll be fine as long as we do what we always do—serve with sincerity."
Catherine leaned back.
Catherine: "I feel confident about everything except the last exam—Spiritual Leadership and Public Speaking."
Emily smirked.
Emily: "Says the girl who got second place in the speech competition."
Catherine rolled her eyes.
Catherine: "That was different. Now, we're being graded."
Kate chuckled.
Kate: "Well, at least Maria doesn't have to worry about that one."
Maria smiled but remained humble.
Maria: "I still have to prepare, just like everyone else."
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A Plan for the Final Days
After discussing the schedule, they decided to prioritize their study topics.
Maria: "Since we only have a few subjects left to review, let's make a plan. We'll focus on one subject per night."
Catherine nodded.
Catherine: "That sounds good. And maybe we can test each other with mock questions?"
Emily: "Yes! That worked well last time."
They set up a revision schedule, making sure that each topic got adequate attention before the exam day arrived.
Maria looked around at her group, feeling grateful for their dedication.
Maria: "We've come a long way, haven't we?"
Kate grinned.
Kate: "From being competitors in the speech contest to a solid study group. Who would have thought?"
Rachel laughed.
Rachel: "I never imagined I'd be studying this hard, but I actually enjoy it now."
Emily raised her cup of tea.
Emily: "To all of us—may we pass these exams with flying colors."
Everyone lifted their cups in agreement.
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The Countdown Begins
As the days passed, they stuck to their study plan. Each night, they rotated rooms, reviewed key topics, and quizzed each other.
The church hall, library, and dormitories were filled with students buried in books, preparing for what would be one of the most important evaluations of their lives.
Despite the pressure, Maria's group felt ready.
With only a few days left before exams began, they remained focused, determined, and united.