​Several learners from across South Africa who excelled in matric in 2021 have decided on Stellenbosch University (SU) as their institution of choice for further studies this year.

Among those becoming Maties are Free State top matriculant Chané Nel, number one in the Eastern Cape Laai'qah Bedford, and the Northern Cape's top achiever Matthew Holm.

No magic recipe, just hard work

Chané, who attended Oranje Meisieskool and achieved an average of 96% and nine distinctions, attributes her success to sustained hard work. “I achieved my marks by working hard every day," she says. “I made sure I studied the work we did daily so that it didn't pile up by the time we got to the exams."

She will be joining SU's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, as training as a doctor will afford her an opportunity to pursue two of her biggest interests – science, and interacting with people. “Combining these two interests in a career is rather difficult," she explains. “In most scientific positions, you have little to do with other people. Conversely, most careers requiring talking, such as law, have nothing to do with science. Medicine is the perfect combination, since I will learn about science, biology and anatomy, but will also be able to interact with patients as a physician."

Can't wait to meet new people

Having attended Hudson Park High School, Laai'qah attained a 95% average and eight distinctions – an achievement she believes is largely thanks to time management. “I planned my weeks and days down to the smallest detail. I also took a lot of breaks in between studying to prevent myself from burning out. A balanced life is a must to maintain your sanity and be able to focus on your studies. Supportive peers and family as well as self-belief also played a part in my success."

She will be studying towards an Actuarial Science degree at SU. “I chose this course because it is inclined to mathematics, and I have a passion and love for numbers," she explains her programme choice. “I feel a career in this field will open a lot of doors for me in the future."

On studying at SU, the East London resident says: “I am mostly looking forward to meeting new people and exploring the town, as I haven't been there since I was a baby. I am also keen on finding out what it's like living away from home." 

SU his “university of choice" since high school

Matthew matriculated from Kathu High School with a 92,44% average and seven distinctions, and says consistency was the biggest contributor to his academic success. “Consistency is, in my opinion, one of the most difficult yet powerful tools to master," he says. “I took all assignments very seriously throughout the year, even those I didn't enjoy doing. The effort you put in throughout the year will carry you through those final matric exam weeks."

He will be enrolling for a BSc Data Science degree, as “it caters to my interests and will most likely provide me with excellent career opportunities in the future". He looks forward to attending SU, as it has been his university of choice since he started high school.