A New Year, A Fresh Reflection

Happy New Year to everyone who stumbles upon this post. It’s the second of January, and while the year feels fresh and exciting, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions weighing on me. The reality of 2025 has hit me hard—last year, the thought of not attending college felt distant, almost unreal. But now, it’s here. It’s real, and it hurts.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the choices I made and the paths I could have taken. The matric results are coming out soon, and while I’m nervous, I know there’s one subject I didn’t do well in. I’ve already accepted that I’ll rewrite it if I have to because I’m not ready to give up on my dreams.

But this isn’t just about me. It’s about anyone who might read this and feel like they’re at a crossroads, unsure of what’s next. It’s for the students still in high school who might think they have all the time in the world. Let me tell you something I wish I had fully understood: time waits for no one.

Looking back, I see how critical those Grade 11 and early Grade 12 marks are. Universities and colleges often look at those results closely, especially the first two terms. It’s not just about the final exam in matric; it’s about the journey leading up to it. And if you’re someone with big dreams but limited resources, start preparing now.

Apply for bursaries. Research scholarships. Ask for help if you need it. It might feel like a lot, but even a small part-time job during the holidays can make a difference. I used to think saving a few hundred rand wouldn’t matter, but now I see how even the smallest amounts can help you take that first step toward registering for your future.

And let’s not forget the life skills that school doesn’t always prepare us for. Things like getting a driver’s license, managing your time, and staying organized. These might seem minor when you’re in the thick of schoolwork, but trust me, they make a world of difference when you step into adulthood.

I know studying isn’t fun for most of us. It’s hard, it’s boring, and sometimes it feels pointless. But when you think about where it can take you, it’s worth it. Imagine the doors you can open, the dreams you can achieve, the life you can build—just because you were willing to focus and push through.

To every high school student reading this: take it seriously. Not in a way that makes you feel overwhelmed, but in a way that reminds you why you’re doing it. You have the power to shape your future. Yes, there will be challenges. Yes, you’ll make mistakes—I’ve made plenty. But it’s never too late to learn, grow, and try again.

As for me, I’m still figuring it out. This year might not look how I imagined, but it’s mine to navigate. I’m ready to face the discomfort, rewrite my mistakes, and build something better.

So here’s to 2025, to dreams, to lessons learned, and to every person out there who’s willing to pause, reflect, and keep moving forward.