While having lunch with her friends on Tuesday, Taleese Chetty received more good news. She has been accepted to study actuarial science at the University of Cape Town.
Hours earlier, she placed first at Crawford International North Coast, having attained 8 Independent Examinations Board (IEB) distinctions. She also achieved within the top 5% in 6 or more subjects.
Taleese obtained distinctions in English HL, Afrikaans FAL, accounting, information technology, life orientation, mathematics, physical sciences, and further studies mathematics. She placed in the top 1% in a subject nationally in the IEB examinations for Afrikaans FAL and physical sciences, and her overall IEB average was 93.23%.
"I worked hard and am proud of my results," said Taleese, 18, of Ballito.
Some of the challenges she faced were the number of assignments and tests that had to be completed.
"I took things one day at a time. I also restricted distractions such as social media and television from the start of the matric year. During this time, I was able to focus and was more inclined and dedicated to my work."
Later this month, Taleese will have to leave her family's nest to live on her own as she prepares for life in another province.
"I will have to fend for myself but I have an uncle and aunt who live close to my apartment. If I miss home, I can visit them. And I will definitely miss my parents, sister and the overall safety of being at home."
She urged this year's batch of matric pupils to organise their Grade 11 notes.
"There is so much that builds up from Grade 11. Be proactive and try to schedule some studies during your holidays. Also, complete every test and assignment to the best of your ability so there are no regrets."