After a short break and our very first graduation event, the girls began classes for Term 3 today.

Term 3 will be filled with excitement like the KCSE testing for Form 4’s and Prefect Elections. The upcoming testing and other excitements of the term can put pressure on the Daraja girls at times, so Karen Mwangi from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission visited to speak to the girls about managing this pressure.

“Human beings have a nature that has a need to be reenergized and strengthened every day,” she began. “The pressure of exams can sometimes lead to conflict, and women of integrity need to have the tools to manage conflict in their lives as they go out into the world.”

Girls remained engrossed in her words throughout the talk. Karen prepared them with tips such as utilizing self-reflection, keeping a positive outlook, and focusing on the present moment to maintain a warm environment on campus during stressful times such as testing.

When Karen’s talk was finished, Teacher Carol shared a parable about a donkey that had fallen into a well. “Townspeople began to bury the donkey,” Teacher Carol explained, “but with each shovel load, the donkey brushed off the dirt and stepped on it. Soon, the donkey and the townspeople had built a mound so high underneath the donkey that it was able to walk out of the well.”

“Any nerves or anxiety that this term throws onto you,” she advised, “you must brush it off, step on it, and walk it off!”

Soon, every Daraja student was shouting and acting out this sentiment. “BRUSH IT OFF,” they shook, “STEP ON IT,” they stomped, “AND WALK IT OFF” the marched.

“I really do feel ready for Term 3 and my KCSE testing,” Mercy F4 reflected, “I am thankful for all these tips.”