Cassidi Opperman matriculated with several distinctions and has some words of wisdom for the class of 2024.
Here is what she has to say:
Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.
Sam Levenson
Time can be something that tends to run away with us in our last year of high school, and before you know it, you are building up your portfolio, writing preliminary exams, enjoying your matric dance, and completing the final paper of your high school career.
Not only does watching the clock build up your anxiety, but you miss out on time you could’ve used far more effectively.
As a deputy head of the class of 2023, I was able to achieve five distinctions and a scholarship to my dream university at the end of it all. However, my last year would not have been what it was without dedication and perseverance, along with memories I will always hold dear to my heart.
As the matric class of 2024 embarks on the final stretch of their high school journey, there is surely a blend of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps some nerves.
And it is normal!
Graduating from high school is a significant milestone, and with it comes the promise of new beginnings. As you stand on the threshold of this next chapter, here are a
few words of advice that got me through my final year.
I’m sure that your teachers from your Grade 11 year have given you some idea of what to expect from what matric has in store for you, but Grade 12 will be a shock to the system.
Some words I remember being told at the beginning of my high school adventure managed to stick with me, ‘Embrace the uncertainty’. It brings opportunities for
growth and self-discovery, because whether you have been in the same school for 12 years or two, there is always room to truly find out who you are and who you want to be.
Within your self-discovery, you can also figure out what works for you in terms of getting your work done, whether it be YouTube videos or study groups. Finding what works best for you can only be beneficial in the end.
Another thing that got me through such a difficult year academically was to treasure the fun and exciting moments, the instances you will be sure to tell your kids about. It’s important to establish a balance between academic and personal life, to remain sane in such a crazy time. Savouring certain moments instead of worrying about the next is the key to making your last year one to remember.
Your goals are of high priority, but so is your mental health. So, no one is saying go out every weekend, but don’t stay in studying all the time, the key is to find the stability between the two and manage your time wisely.
And of course, please do not underestimate matric!
Study when you need to, hand in your assignments, and above all things, do not fall victim to the curse of procrastination. But I’m not here to parrot what your teachers have already told you – so once you understand yourself a little better and find your balance of when to knuckle down and when to enjoy matric, you’re ready to tackle this next phase of your life.
Good luck to the Class of 2024!
Keep going, before time catches up to you while you’re staring at the clock.
Related Article: A final Mass for the DLSHCC matric class
