These were for Afrikaans first language, English home language, business studies, consumer studies, geography, life orientation, mathematics and mathematics paper three (probability, data handling and geometry), during the 2013 Independent Examination Board (IEB) exams.
“I was surprised when I saw that I got eight distinctions,” said van den Bergh
She added that the study method she used was summarising her work from the text book and making mind maps.
“I started making study notes from the beginning of the year; I did not wait till the last minute,” she said.
The challenges she faced during the year were trying to make time for her social life and moving houses — she did not have her own bedroom while writing her finals.
Apart from doing well academically, she participated in public speaking, debating and ballet.
She recently completed the final ballet exam to allow her to study dance.
“When I matriculated I had the option to either study dance professionally or go to university, and I chose to further my studies,” she said.
She will study towards a Business Consumer Science qualification in clothing retail management, at the University of Pretoria.
Her advice for 2014 matriculants is to lead a balanced life during their matric year.
