UCT student advises 2013 matrics

Bhekisisa Nyembe (21) from Mzimhlophe matriculated in 2011 from St Martin de Porres Combined School in Phomolong, with seven distinctions.

He scored distinctions in English, maths, life orientation, geography, life science, physical science and maths paper 3.

Nyembe is now a third year student at the University of Cape Town studying Actuarial Science.

He shared with us life after matric and his experience in varsity and the challenges of being away from home.

“Life in varsity has been a very interesting experience that has had a lot of impact on me. I have met various people from different parts of South Africa and various parts of the world,” he said.

Nyembe said that he has not felt homesick as he mentally prepared himself before he left home.

He said that everyone has made him feel so at home that he feels like he is home away from home.

“Fortunately some of the people I grew up with are also at UCT so it was great having some familiar faces around,” he said.

With studding away from home some students battle with discipline as they don’t have an adult figure who is watching over them and make sure they study.

Nyembe explained that one has to be self-disciplined and always remember why they are at varsity.

“There is nothing wrong with going out and having fun but one must remember the main reason why they are there.

Balance is very important – you can’t go out more than you study and expect to do well in your studies,” he said.

He said that balance also helps one not to put too much pressure on themselves.

He advised pupils who are heading to varsity not to fall into the trap of trying to fit in. He said that it is important to remain humble and to remember all the morals that you learnt at home.

He said that at times students feel under pressure when they don’t fit in and they end up being something they are not in order to fit in.

“It is very hard being something you are not, don’t succumb to other people’s expectations. Be you at all times, don’t fall under pressure if you don’t have the clothes that other students have, be patient and study. Your time will come to wear expensive clothes,” he said.

Nyembe advised students not just to focus on what they learn in the lecture room, they should also go out and seek knowledge.

“Read books, watch movies that have to do with what you are studying, always be on your toes,” he said.

“Never be ashamed to asking varsity tutors.

Nyembe also said that one of the things he noticed in varsity is that not everyone is equal. He said that if you know that you are lacking in a specific area you should do what you can to up skill yourself.

“I congratulate the matriculants of 2013. They must keep up the momentum of hard work. They should always make sure they hold their heads up and keep confident in all they do,” he said.