St Teresa’s matric star credits belief and balance for eight distinctions
Eight distinctions, a love for learning, and a calm approach to matric. St Teresa’s learner Lea Human shares how passion, planning, and support shaped her success.
For many matriculants, the final school year is defined by pressure and long nights of panic-driven studying. For St Teresa’s Lea Human however, matric was about passion, balance, and believing in herself, a formula that resulted in an outstanding eight distinctions.
Now a 2025 matric graduate, Lea says one of the biggest contributors to her success was choosing subjects she genuinely loved. “Doing subjects I was passionate about made me want to do the best I could. It also helped knowing my teachers believed in me and supported me throughout the year.”
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Despite achieving academic excellence, Lea’s matric year was not without personal challenges, particularly at the start. Rather than withdrawing, she leaned into the activities that brought her joy, including taking part in the St David’s and St Teresa’s joint production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Surrounding herself with supportive people, she says, made a significant difference.
Organisation played a key role in managing the academic demands of matric. Lea ensured her notes were completed well in advance, allowing her to participate in public speaking and drama while maintaining her academic performance. “Being exposed to creativity and new experiences really helped with my overall well-being.”
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She credits her parents, especially her mother, who patiently helped her study for prelims and finals, as well as her teachers for playing an instrumental role in her success.
Lea will be heading to Stellenbosch University to study a BA Humanities, a choice she describes as exciting and freeing. “I don’t know exactly what I want to be yet, but this degree allows me to explore subjects I already love.”
Her advice to future matriculants is simple, but powerful. “Find what you’re passionate about, and remember, you’re not alone, matric is something many people have survived before you.”
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