Studying is never an easy task and includes focusing on what needs to be done, overcoming distractions and keeping your nerves in check.
So, for Ryan Quigley of King Edward VII School to have received a 99 per cent distinction in mathematics for this matric year is somewhat of a miracle. Not only did it mean he excelled in every exam and test, he also had to excel in class, every day of the year.
“I have always had an aptitude for mathematics and quantifiable subjects. I believe this developed through Kumon maths and excessive practice of questions,” said Quigley. One could argue that it helps if you have a natural affinity for a certain subject, then you will do well, but to receive 99 per cent is far beyond doing well.
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He admitted that he struggled with other subjects in the past. “Languages have always been a challenge – I received 60 per cent for English throughout my schooling. Although English was a challenge, I put a lot of effort into it over the past two years and, with the guidance from my English educator, Mrs Meyer, I was able to get a distinction in that, too,” beamed Quigley, whose advice to upcoming matriculants is to understand the basic laws that govern the subjects and critically practice many past papers.
Quigley plans on studying accounting and finance in the United Kingdom and then venture into investment banking.
