Johannesburg - Inspired by her sister, who was also an academic achiever, Ashley Santangelo bagged eight full house distinctions on her preliminary results. She says she was stunned by the results because they did not experience the normal exam period.
Though the year was not as good as expected, they still made the most of it, particularly given the conditions under Covid-19 restrictions.
“Unfortunately, we were not able to experience a ’normal’ matric year. However, as a school we did make the most of it given the circumstances.
“As matrics, we were still able to experience the school’ traditions on a smaller scale. For example, we were still able to host a school gala, prize-giving and receive our matric jackets. More specifically being a part of the school’s councillor group made the matric year that much more exciting.”
Santangelo had a structure which she believes inspired her to rise to the top.
“I have three important role models or inspirational tools in my life. My sister, my friends and myself.
“My sister was the initial inspiration for my achievements as she herself is an academic achiever. She was a dux scholar of Fourways High School in 2018 and ever since then, it had inspired me to try my hardest to be the same,” she said.
She added that the healthy competition with her friends also encouraged her to do her best.
“My friends are all academic achievers themselves and there has always been a good healthy competition running through the friend group for first place. Thus, always motivating me to try my best.”
Santangelo mentioned herself as part of the list as well, as she believed she grew academically which has been something to anticipate through the years.
“Seeing myself grow academically from Grade 1 to matric has been extremely inspirational and motivates me as I always wonder how much more I am capable of achieving.”
Santangelo obtained six distinctions in Afrikaans First Additional, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Accounting, Information Technology and Physical Sciences in her final NSC exams.
She was also part of a committee that helped raise money for those who were in need.
“During my high school career, I was a part of a committee called Interact. Whilst being involved, we raised a lot of money, food, cosmetics and basic essentials for the not only the family’s in our school struggling, but many orphanages around the area.” she said
Though she loves writing she believes that she will pursue the hobby in the form of a blog as she looks forward to studying for a Bachelor of Science at Wits University
“I plan on studying a BSc in physics at the University of Witwatersrand. I definitely am interested in seeing what Wits has to offer and where I can get involved in the student community. I also plan on tutoring high school students part time.”
The Star