The 18-year-old will have his history and economics papers remarked, after finishing them with 79 and 76 per cent, respectively.
The youngster managed As in English home language, Afrikaans first additional language, life orientation, mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, information technology and advanced programme mathematics.
When asked whether he was expecting eight distinctions, Smulders said: “I was expecting 10”.
The Lakefield resident said he performed well below his potential before he got to Grade 11.
“I procrastinated a lot and didn’t like studying,” he added.
“I then started getting more interested in some subjects, like physical sciences and advanced maths.”
He turned a new leaf when he was named the top information technology student in Grade 11.
“I liked the feeling of doing well, so I thought: let me just do well,” he said.
In Grade 12, Smulders received the award for the top pupil in physical sciences.
He said his short-term memory enabled him to study a mere two days before his exams, barring economics, for which he spent a week behind the books.
The youngster, who also played first team hockey for his school from Grade 10, said this year’s matrics must take an interest in their subjects in order to do well.
He will study towards a degree in computer sciences and physics at the University of Pretoria.
Do good results run in the family?
Smulders said his twin sister, Dené, also a Benoni High School pupil, received four distinctions, including 100 per cent for visual arts.
She will enrol in a fine arts degree at the University of Pretoria.
Read more about other Benoni High School pupils with eight distinctions by clicking on these links:
Eight distinctions no surprise for Allan
