I’m in Year 13 doing A-level Maths, A-level Computer Science, and Level 3 Health & Social Care. Yes, it’s a pretty random mix — I didn’t really know what I wanted in Year 12.
• I chose Maths because it’s broad and useful for loads of degrees.
• Computer Science because I loved it at GCSE.
• Health & Social Care because I was interested in healthcare but didn’t want to take a pure science.
I’m doing ok in Computer Science and pretty well in Health & Social Care…
but Maths is absolutely destroying me.
Like genuinely, I’m not even passing. I try SO hard — past papers, topic questions, videos, tuition — but nothing stays in my head. The second I sit the exam, my mind goes blank and I end up with nearly nothing written. It’s humiliating and stressful and I feel like I’m the only one struggling this much.
Now I’m applying to uni for Computer Science, and most unis want A-level Maths. The foundation years also often won’t take you if you’ve already done A-level Maths, which puts me in such a weird position.
My parents really want me to aim for a Russell Group like Durham, Nottingham, Manchester, Liverpool, etc., but they’re all super competitive and I just feel stuck and terrified. My teachers aren’t helping and my parents don’t understand how stressed I am.
I feel like I’m trying everything but still failing.
If anyone has been in a similar situation or has advice, please help. I’m genuinely so scared and I don’t know what to do anymore.