when tools are as important as the lousy workman

Ever heard of this phrase : A lousy workman only blames his tools?

Well, I do not totally agree with this statement though somehow it does have some logic in it. But certain phrases just do not apply to just about everything-like exams.

Yes. I have just received my results for my matriculation and it was not very encouraging. Though I have to admit it was a mediocre one-not bad but not good enough. My average score was 75% ( an A grade) whilst the University of Nottingham required 85% ! Aiks. Fine. I figured I've run short of 10% to enter the undergraduate course and as a result, I have to do an extra year. However, all hopes are not lost. To look at the bright side, getting 75% wasn't that bad at all. I mean, c'mon it's still an A ! Unfortunately, certain people in my life do not share this view with me.

I have reasons for getting 75% and not 85%. And though it may sound like I am giving excuses like a little boy not satisfied after losing a board game, I am sincerely truthful that these reasons are valid. I did not do this just to cover up my shortcomings. If I do have one, I am more than happy to admit it. But when situation like this (getting 10% less) arise, if I have reasons for this to take place then I will say it.

The reason why I could not get 85% because there was a lack of resources for me to refer to during my course. In my college, which I refuse to disclose its name, do not have enough capacity to offer academic references for students to use to assist in their studies. Yes. this is true and no matter what others say, I can tell you it is true. I am not blaming falsely on the college for the missing 10%. But the fact is and it is this. I did not have enough academic assistance unlike my other friends in other colleges.

Also, the studying environment wasn't all very pleasant. There were certain incidents which kind of distracted me from concentrating on my studies. Hence, student morale comes into the picture. During my course, my morale was at an all time low, given the circumstances which I had to endure during my 10-month stint at the college. Imagine 10 months of total lack of morale-boosting catalysts ( guys would know what I mean). A year ago I couldn't imagine such of a scenario. But after this year, I had a first-hand experience. And it's tough.

Therefore, with the lack of resources to facilitate my academic endevours and with my morale running below optimum levels, it is understandable why the 10% seemed so illusive.

" If you put Alonso in a Minardi, you cannot expect him to win every race."

Hence, if you put me in that not-so-academically-encouraging situation, how could I ever fulfill my potential?