How exam stress cost Olena Zelenska a point: Ukraine's first lady opens up about her math test

Olena Zelenska recalls the pressure of university entrance exams

According to Главком: Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, recently shared personal memories of taking university entrance exams during an appearance on the project 'Breakfast with 1+1'. She explained that when she applied, there was no external independent evaluation (ZNO) or national multi-subject test (NMT). Instead, applicants had to sit for exams directly at their chosen university, which, according to Zelenska, added an extra layer of stress.

Zelenska also recalled how, during the math exam, the pressure caused her to freeze on one problem.

“I remember that stress played a cruel trick on me several times,” she said.

Surprisingly, the solution came to her only after she had left and was on her way home. 'The stress held me back – that cost me a point,' the first lady added.

Support for graduates and international diplomacy

A key part of her current work involves supporting students during the stressful NMT preparation period. Zelenska has introduced a special guide designed to offer psychological support to young people, helping them manage exam-related anxiety.

“It has always been important for me not to let stress stop me from truly showing what I know,” she emphasized.

Additionally, Zelenska recently traveled to the United States, where she met with the 43rd U.S. president, George W. Bush. This meeting highlights the first lady's growing role in international relations and diplomacy. The details of her memories and initiatives were published by the news outlet 'Glavcom'.

Zelenska's remarks underscore the critical need for mental health support among students facing exams, especially given the high-stress environment many applicants experience. Her efforts, including the creation of a stress-management handbook, aim to assist countless young people navigating the challenging process of academic assessment. This work also reflects a broader commitment to advancing education and youth development across Ukraine.