Isabella Brooks, a Rosie from St Teresa’s, viewed her matric year as more than just grades.
It was defined by resilience, balance, and perspective, which helped her achieve excellent academic results and positively influence her school community.
Looking back, Isabella credits her success largely to her home environment. As the youngest in her family, she found reassurance in the steady support of her parents and siblings, who helped her keep matric in perspective.
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While academic performance dominated the school day, home was a space that reminded her that results form only one part of a much bigger picture. That balance, she says, was crucial in keeping her grounded during moments of stress and self-doubt.
Matric, however, did not come without its challenges. Isabella faced the demanding reality of writing final exams while managing a sleeping disorder, often sitting papers with little to no rest.
The lack of sleep heightened her anxiety, forcing her to rethink how much control school had over her life. By consciously decentralising exams and marks, and placing value on family time, friendships, and personal passions, she found her stress levels eased. In turn, this allowed her to think more clearly and rest better when it mattered most.
Her school life was far from one-dimensional. A prefect with a strong sense of community, Isabella immersed herself in debating, public speaking, and squash, while also helping to establish a gardening club and organise a cultural evening celebrating students’ dramatic and musical talents. These moments, she says, were among the highlights of her year and helped her leave a meaningful mark on St Teresa’s.
Mental wellbeing played a central role in her journey. For much of the year, Isabella worked with a psychologist, a decision she believes made a significant difference. She openly encourages other matriculants to seek professional support if they are able to, noting that having someone to talk to helped her manage anxiety and maintain focus.
Academically, her approach was practical and disciplined. Past papers, consistent practice, and structured routines formed the backbone of her study method, alongside regular check-ins with teachers for extra guidance and resources. Importantly, she allowed herself breaks, understanding that rest was not a weakness but a necessity.
With school now behind her, Isabella plans to study biology at the University of Cape Town, with the aim of specialising in ecology. Passionate about Africa’s natural world, she hopes to contribute to conservation efforts amid the growing challenges of climate change, poaching, and habitat loss.
As advice to future matriculants, Isabella offers honesty. Hard work and sacrifice are necessary, she says, but they should feel purposeful, not punishing. Trust in the work you put in, value what truly matters, and remember that success is as much about wellbeing as it is about results.
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