‘Helping others is the way forward’ – Lisa Nunes

Lisa Nunes, Alberton High school top student of 2013, had received seven distinctions for English, Afrikaans, Mathmatics, Life Oreintation, Physical Science, Accounting and Life Sciences with an average total of 94.4 per cent. She is now a motivated and dedicated student at Wits University

What did you want to become as a child?

From very early years, I always wanted to become either a doctor or a chartered accountant. Even though I had a second option, my heart always leaned more towards medicine and becoming a CA became my back-up plan. Medicine (a MBBCh degree) is an extremely competitive course to get into and this motivated me to work extremely hard.

It all started during my childhood – the desire to do what was required of me to better my chances of acceptance. Helping others was a more rewarding experience, knowing that one day that will be exactly what my job would entail.

Therefore, it shaped me into someone who is hardworking, perseverant and compassionate where helping others became a second nature.

Why medicine?

I have chosen the field of Medicine because it is my passion. I think that every day will be exciting in the sense that you do not know what kind of cases may need medical attention.

While you may anticipate a few lumps and bumps, anything can come in from stab wounds to lost limbs. Apart from the physical excitement, I believe that it will provide a sense of fulfilment by having the ability to aid others and save lives.

Practising medicine is being able to help people in a way that they cannot help themselves.

Any advice for those venturing into varsity life?

Be brave and enjoy the journey. Varsity is a whole new chapter with its own obstacles. To study is a huge commitment, so remain dedicated and enthusiastic.

It will require more of you in ways that school never did, but once you have completed your course, it will all be worth it as hard work is never a waste. To those who are unsure: try and shortlist your interests and decide what kind of work you would like to do one day. Do a lot of research on the various degrees available from every university and what the different careers entail.

If you are able to, you should definitely try and get an opportunity to job-shadow an individual already in your desired career, as it may determine whether it is the right path for you or not. If you are still undecided, try doing a general degree where you can then specialise at a later stage. However, do something that makes you happy.

Studying requires a huge commitment and therefore you need to enjoy it and be prepared for whatever career path you may choose. Keep your options open, as life does not always follow the path we have predetermined for ourselves.

If you were a president, what would the one thing be that you would change in South Africa?

I would try to make education a priority to ensure more skilled individuals that could improve the country. There should be more opportunities for everyone to alleviate the unemployment rate and poverty and retain the valuable, skilled professionals that we have already produced.

This could improve the standard of living for many and reduce the emigration rate and loss of South African talent to other countries.

Describe your favourite family fun time?

One of my most important values is family and family time. My favourite family fun time is when we all play badminton.

I played badminton throughout high school and as a result everyone became very fond of the sport.

We hang a string across the garden that serves as the net and compete in teams to see who can win the most games. I also love reading and listening to music in my spare time.

Do you have any siblings?

I am very fortunate to have two sisters: Veronica (23) and Nicole (10), making me the middle child. We all get on very well and hardly ever fight. We have many similar interests and we are even lucky – or unlucky! – enough to be able to share each other’s clothes. Our personalities differ, with my youngest sister being the least shy and my oldest sister being the most shy. When one of our parents shouts at either of us, we suddenly stick together. I am very pleased with how close we are and I could not begin to imagine my life without them.

Who is your icon and why?

Definitely Pope Francis, the new leader of the Catholic Church who embodies all that is good. He is extremely humble, caring, selfless and holy. He puts the poor and downtrodden above himself. He is good-hearted and compassionate and a fantastic ambassador for my religion. He is a very inspiring person and I would like to be more like him.

Where do you see yourself in the next five to ten years?

I see myself completing my studies at the University of the Witwatersrand and beginning to practice as a doctor and working in the hospitals. I also still see myself teaching Catechism (Catholic doctrine) at my parish, St. Therese, to the younger children, which is something I thoroughly enjoy.

What type of personality best describes you?

I am someone who tries to dedicate myself to whatever task I am faced with. I am quite easy-going, caring, and friendly and always enjoy social time. I try to always be funny and I like helping others and building relationships with the individuals around me.