Grade 11 student tells us how she prioritises growth and balance
Peyton Patchappen, a Grade 11 student, is juggling academics, interests like dance and debate, and helping her mother run a social club for seniors.

My name is Peyton Patchappen and these are the simple things to know about me.
The thing about me is my happiness is not fulfilling every pleasure or every outcome I desire. To me happiness is being able to enjoy a life with a peaceful mind that is not constantly craving more. To embrace the comfort I find in the simple things.
Read more: GRADE 11s: Invest in your academics now
In 2025 I am going to be 17, and in a few days I’ll be in Grade 11. I, as an individual, have many goals, aspirations, and interests.
So, yes, I’m aware I’m a student, and many would say I should prioritise focusing on my studies and work, but I will continue to prioritise my interests alongside them, since they also serve a purpose in my life. My greatest interests stem into a bigger picture, to eventually achieve my goals and give me the chance to grow as a person, whilst I learn from each one of them. These interests consist of music, reading, debate, philosophy, dance, and so much more.
My end goal is still yet to be defined, but I have enough understanding within myself to know which direction to pursue. I eventually want to study medicine, to narrow it down, to be in the surgical field, but the latter would be to study law. For me to achieve those goals I know I need to stay consistent.
Also read: Grade 11s: Start your 5-step matric success journey today
I’m learning consistency through the things I do, such as dancing. I dance with a crew, but I’ve been inconsistent in it. Due to that, I realised what a difference it makes. You feel the rhythm and flow where all the steps make sense, because you’re staying consistent, but it changes when you’re not going. It’s like questioning every move, doubting yourself. Just thinking it doesn’t feel right. Debate is one of my biggest learning opportunities. It helps me develop new perspectives, and be able to have my own beliefs and opinions challenged. Overall gaining a bigger insight and expanded my knowledge.
A small fact about me is I help my mum run our company, the Golden Years Social Club, where I try to apply myself as much as I possibly can.
In essence, I’m aware I’m young and still have time to learn and grow. To me, the real understanding of self comes from being in silence. Because whenever life is loud, I know I can sit in silence to hear my voice, focusing on what I’m driven towards.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Grade 11s: Why think about study options now?