Roedean’s Ita Collins set for Harvard after nine distinctions

Former Roedean School head girl Ita Collins is preparing for the next step of her academic journey after earning nine distinctions in matric and getting accepted into Harvard University.

Ita said she did not know how to feel when she received her matric results.

“I couldn’t believe it at first and had to read it a couple of times before I said anything to my mom,” she said.

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She added that she was grateful to those who had a hand in helping her to get where she is.

“I was overcome with pride and gratitude. I was so thankful for my teachers, family and Crimson Education advisors who helped me get here.”

She added that their motivation helped her find learning enjoyable without feeling the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations.

After being appointed head girl in 2025, Ita said she learned that leadership is a team effort.

“I learned that to achieve real positive change, I could not do it alone.”

Juggling academics, sport, leadership responsibilities and university applications during matric was not easy, but Collins said great communication and proper planning played a huge role in managing her time.

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She said that studying at Harvard brings her one step closer to achieving her dream of making the world a better place. She added that she cannot wait to meet different people there.

“I’ve always wanted to play my role in changing the world for the better, and I look forward to learning from brilliant professors and meeting classmates from around the world.”

Her advice to current learners is to remain true to themselves, dream big and ask for help when they need it.

“It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but you’re more capable than you think. I couldn’t have done it without my support network, and you don’t have to go through the journey alone either.”

She intends to major in environmental studies, combining science and policy with a corporate sustainability or public health focus.

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