A new start waits at Harvard University for a Crawford International Lonehill alumna.
Gemma Rushton (19) has been packing for her new adventure in Massachusetts where she will be studying computer sciences on a full scholarship.
Since receiving her acceptance on May 7, Rushton has been in the process of finalising last-minute documents and spending time with her loved ones before she leaves.
“When I found out, it was honestly unreal. It felt like I was dreaming. I honestly didn’t have the words. I had to read the email seven times because I thought it was a scam,” she said.
“I had applied to 10 other universities in the US because I was really concerned about the odds of getting in, so in applying to Harvard, I thought it didn’t cost me to try – I mean it when I say I didn’t expect to get in.”
Rushton achieved eight distinctions in Grade 12 at Crawford International Lonehill. She described her final year as a tough one to complete due to online learning imposed by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and since matriculating, she had taken eight months to relax after a stressful year.
Outside of her academics, she said she enjoyed cultural activities. “I’m quite skilled in mathematical and science things, but the cultural activities helped me take a break from my routine. During my time off, I signed up for a free online course in music theory because it’s so interesting to me.
“When in school I was in the vocal ensemble, and outside of school I’ve been doing ballroom and Latin dancing for the last six or seven years.”
Set to leave the country on August 16, Rushton said she would take a number of items to remind her of her South African roots.
“It’s going to be a very mixed culture pot but I’ll still have to adjust to the American way of life. The best way to learn is to grab it with both hands and enjoy every bit the experience has to offer.”
She concluded, “I’ll definitely be taking Rooibos tea with me, a photo album with my family, friends and pets, and I’ll attempt to make biltong that side. These things I’ll nurture to remind me of home but settling in will definitely be an adjustment.”
