Yashka Singh’s intention, since Grade Eight, was to become a top student.
And she realised this dream when she beat the rest to become a top National Senior Certificate student, not only at Benoni High School, but possibly the rest of Benoni.
This bright 18-year-old girl achieved nine distinctions, in English home language, Afrikaans first additional language, life orientation, mathematics, mathematics paper three, business studies, geography, life sciences, and physical sciences.
She worked very hard and made sure that her school work was always up to date.
Her biggest challenge going into the exams was the fact that she managed to achieve only 60 per cent in physical science in the first term.
“I didn’t think I was going to get a distinction, but still I worked very hard and never gave up,” she said.
Being involved in drama, dancing, athletics and cross-country running was also a challenge.
“You have to learn to balance, otherwise you will go mad,” said the giggling Yashka.
Yashka has enrolled for a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBCHB) at Wits University.
“I’ve always wanted to help people who can’t afford proper medical care and I think this is the start,” she said.
She is very happy with her achievement and believes the nine distinctions have opened a lots of doors for her.
To those who will be writing matric in 2014, she says: “Focus on doing your best, set goals to the best of your ability and never give up.”