WASSCE is over for you, and the endless days of cramming formulas and memorising long definitions are now behind you. For the first time in years, your schedule is wide open, and while that might be a relief, there’s still the lingering question of what to do with all this free time.
Right now, the practical response to that might be “just relax and wait for your results.” But let’s be honest: waiting around with nothing to do is not helpful. This “after WA” period, though something many look forward to, doesn’t come with a handbook on how to occupy yourself until WASSCE results are released.
I’ll share a few ways you can engage yourself while you wait for your results. And no, these activities don’t include endless scrolling on social media or playing video games all day.
Business mode activated
If you’ve ever thought about starting a small business, selling snacks, handmade crafts, or tutoring students, this is your moment. Back in school, WASSCE prep probably took up all your time and energy. Perhaps you had an idea but couldn’t act on it. Or maybe you started something and had to pause.[1]
Now, with fewer academic demands, you finally have the space to build something of your own. It doesn’t have to be big. Even a modest hustle can go a long way and teach you valuable skills like money management, dealing with customers and proper budgeting.
You’ll also learn how to grow a business and what works. And the best part of it all? You’ll make some money along the way, maybe enough to buy that one gadget you’ve been begging your parents to get you since you finished your WASSCE.
Pick your skill
Sitting around all day scrolling your phone, let’s be honest, it gets boring fast. Now that you’re done with your exams and have so much free time, why not use it to learn something useful?
There are a ton of skills you can pick up right from the comfort of your home or neighbourhood. If you’re into hands-on stuff, you could try using your ten-year-old sister as a model and go into photography, or maybe go into that one auntie’s neighbourhood salon and learn how to braid. There are also many beginner-friendly baking videos all over YouTube.[2]
If you’re more into tech stuff, then digital skills might be of more interest to you. Coding, graphic design, and video editing are a few high-demand skills to choose from. Platforms like YouTube, Coursera and Alison have free tutorials that are easy to follow.
When it comes to learning a skill, there are always so many benefits to gain. It could turn into a hobby, something to pass the time while you wait for your results. That skill could also become a side hustle you can make money from. Perhaps one day, if you really take it seriously, it can become a full-time thing or even help you secure a job in future.
Small moves, big impact
The after WA period is also a good time to start preparing for life after high school, start taking those small steps into your adult and professional life. You don’t need to have everything figured out, but there are simple things you can do now that will definitely make an impact later.
Start with the basics:
Build your portfolio or CV
Write a simple CV and create a portfolio to go with it.[3] If you’re into writing, photography, design or coding, you can create a simple online space to showcase your work. It could be something as simple as Instagram highlights, to share links or pictures of your work or progress with everyone else.
Learn email etiquette
Learn how to send professional emails; of course, you’ll need a professional email address for that. If your email address is something like “prettyprincess2007@gmail.com,” then it’s time for an upgrade. Create a clean, professional email address using your name. You’ll use it for job applications, school forms and networking.[4]
| Unprofessional Email | Corrected Professional Email | Why It’s Better |
| swagboy2000@gmail.com | kwameadjei2000@gmail.com | Uses real name, avoids slang |
| cutiepiexoxo@yahoo.com | amaboateng@yahoo.com | Removes nicknames and emoticons |
| nanakofiagyekumboateng-12345678910@outlook.com | nanakofi123@outlook.com | Makes it short and simple |
Manage money smartly
Manage your money smartly: If you don’t have a bank account, open one. Learn how to use mobile money safely. Try budgeting, even if it’s just keeping track of your pocket money. These habits will help you feel more in control of your finances and encourage proper saving.[5]
Clean up your online presence
Don’t forget your online presence; clean up your social media. If you’re thinking about future opportunities, consider starting a LinkedIn profile[6] or joining online platforms that match your interests; tech, fashion, entrepreneurship, whatever you’re into. These spaces can help you learn, network and stay motivated in such fields.
These steps might not seem like much now, but they’ll no doubt come in handy when you’re applying for scholarships, internships or jobs in the future. Whether you’re heading to university or preparing for professional work, these habits lay the foundation for a successful transition.
Step up and volunteer
Now that the WASSCE pressure is off and you’re looking forward to the next chapter of your life, why not start with one of the most underrated ways to gain real-world experience, volunteer work?[7]
Volunteering is one of the simplest ways to gain real-world experience, and there are many opportunities to get involved across different fields. It also adds value to your CV or scholarship application. Whether you help at a school, assist in a hospital, or support an NGO, you are not only contributing to a good cause but also developing important skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and responsibility.
You learn to adapt to different people and situations, building skills that go beyond what is taught in the classroom. Through volunteering, you may discover that you enjoy teaching, organising events, or caring for patients in a hospital. Experiences like these can help you identify the field of education or professional path you may want to pursue in the future.
If you’re not sure where to start, ask around. Local schools, clinics, churches, and community centres often need extra hands, and you don’t need prior experience or a certificate to help. If nothing is available nearby, online volunteering platforms also provide opportunities to contribute remotely.
Websites like UN Volunteers[8] and Catchafire [9] offer ways to support causes, learn new skills, and build your CV, all from home. These experiences show that your time and effort can make a real difference and shape your future in ways you might never expect.
The shadowing method
Let’s talk about shadowing. It might be one of the most eye-opening things you could do after WASSCE. And it’s pretty common too, especially in internships and volunteer work. The idea is to spend time with someone working in a field you’re curious about, whether it’s a nurse, mechanic, lawyer, teacher or entrepreneur.[10]
This method is sure to give you a good look at how the job really is, beyond what you see online or hear in class. You’ll see the challenges they face, how they think through these challenges and the skills they use to overcome them. These are things no textbook can teach, and it always gives a better perspective on the profession.
Perhaps you thought of becoming a radio presenter after school, but after spending time at a radio station, you realise you’re more interested in sound production. Or, as someone with no interest in fashion, you spend a few days with a fashion designer and discover a newfound love for creativity and business in that field.
Shadowing does not always have to be a formal arrangement. You can ask a family friend, neighbour, or someone in your community if you can observe them at work for a few days. Help with small tasks, ask questions, take notes, and try to imagine yourself in that role. Shadowing can help you make more informed decisions about your future and may even open doors you did not expect.
Plan ahead
The period between finishing WASSCE and waiting for your results can feel like a long stretch of uncertainty. Even with distractions to keep your mind busy, there’s often some lingering anxiety on results day and what’s to come. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s perfectly normal. What matters most is how you use this time to prepare for what’s next.
For many students, the goal is to head straight to university once results and admissions are out. That makes this waiting period a great opportunity to start researching your options. You can start by exploring different universities, their programs and available scholarships. Also, make sure you visit school websites to check cut-off points and application deadlines. Some courses, like medicine, may require interviews or entrance exams before admission, so knowing these early gives you a head start.
If you’re considering retaking WASSCE or writing NOVDEC to improve your grades, this is also a valuable time to focus. Look for a good remedial school, especially one with flexible schedules and strong academic systems. Also, make sure you focus on the subjects that challenged you most during WASSCE and practice with past questions to sharpen your understanding. With the right mindset and preparation, a resit can lead to very impressive results for tertiary education.[11]
And perhaps you’re thinking of taking a gap year to start a business, gain work experience, or figure out your next move.[12] That’s okay too. What’s important is using this time intentionally: reflect on your goals, explore your interests and set up the groundwork for the future you want.
No matter which direction you’re leaning toward, this period is a chance to plan and prepare yourself for what you want to do in the next phase of your life.
Post WASSCE: A time well spent
There are many meaningful things you can do during the post-WASSCE period that do not require much money or special requirements: just genuine interest and effort. Whether it is learning a new skill, starting a small business, or volunteering in your community, these activities can help you explore new interests while keeping your mind engaged as you wait for your results.
But you shouldn’t have to figure this out alone. Parents, schools, communities, and government agencies must all play a role by offering their guidance and support. Imagine if there were national post-WASSCE programs that offer mentorship, workshops and practical training.[13] If the Ministry of Education partnered with tech hubs, vocational centres and youth groups, this waiting period could become a time of growth and experience.
Of course, rest is important, and you deserve a break after the effort you put into your final exams. However, it is still worthwhile to set aside some time to explore opportunities and prepare for the next stage of your life. The results will come, but how you use the period after WASSCE can also make a meaningful difference.
• • •
Footnotes
[1] A Fresh Graduate’s guide to starting a business in Ghana – Ghana Enterprises Agency. (n.d.). https://geaclient.com/a-fresh-graduates-guide-to-starting-a-business-in-ghana/
[2] Precious, B. (2023, June 24). NEXT STEP AFTER WAEC EXAM [Online forum post]. EduPro Forum. https://eduproforum.com/threads/next-step-after-waec-exam.2736/
[3] Resume Genius. (2025, June 24). EASY GUIDE to Writing a High School Student Resume (with Free Templates!) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-z4v-Dw7n50
[4] Herrity, J. (2025, December 19). How to write a professional Email (With tips and examples). Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-professional-email
[5] U.S. Career Institute. (n.d.). A High Schoolers guide to budgeting | U.S. Career Institute – USCI. https://www.uscareerinstitute.edu/blog/high-schoolers-guide-to-budgeting
[6] 5 steps for high school students to perfect their LinkedIn profile. (2017, November). College Match Point. https://www.collegematchpoint.com/college-matchpoint-blog/2017/11/5-steps-for-high-school-students-to-perfect-their-linkedin-profile
[7] ▷ Volunteer in Ghana 🇬🇭 | Top 10 Programs 2026 | Volunteer World. (n.d.). Volunteer World. https://www.volunteerworld.com/en/volunteer-abroad/ghana
[8] United Nation volunteers. (n.d.). United Nations. https://www.unv.org/
[9] Volunteer your skills anytime, anywhere: Virtual skills-based volunteering made easy. (n.d.). Catchafire. https://www.catchafire.org/volunteer?name_filter=&type_filter=1&type_filter=2&type_filter=5&page=1&init=true
[10] Marina. (2024, June 25). Exploring the benefits of job shadowing. Mundus. https://mundusgroup.com/exploring-the-benefits-of-job-shadowing/
[11] Ghana, E. (2022, June 5). How to study and prepare for NOVDEC – a smart guide. ExamCenter Ghana. https://examcenter.com.gh/posts/prepare-novdec
[12] Schollum, S. (2024, June 5). The ultimate guide to taking a gap year after high school. Pure Exploration. https://pureexploration.com/blogs/news/the-ultimate-guide-to-taking-a-gap-year-after-high-school#:~:text=1.,great%20time%20to%20give%20back.
[13] Pens down & level up, drip to trip: The ultimate post-WASSCE adventure for SHS graduates – MyJoyOnline. (n.d.). MyJoyOnline. https://www.myjoyonline.com/pens-down-level-up-drip-to-trip-the-ultimate-post-wassce-adventure-for-shs-graduates/
