The 18-year-old was in the top one per cent nationally in business studies and history, as well as on the commendable list (top five per cent for five subjects).
Pawson achieved distinctions for Afrikaans (89 per cent), English (89 per cent), physical sciences (84 per cent), mathematics (93 per cent), history (97 per cent), business studies (93 per cent), life orientation (85 per cent) and advanced programme English (89 per cent), during the 2016 Independent Examination Board (IEB) exams.
“I wasn’t expecting to get distinctions for all my subjects, however I was ecstatic and really pleased about my results,” said Pawson.
She added that she worked hard and studied throughout the whole year – and not just during the final exams.
The challenges she faced during the year, were trying to balance her role as head girl – academics as well as extramural activities.
Apart from excelling academically, she participated in public speaking and played squash.
She will study corporate law at the University of Pretoria this year.
“Since the beginning of high school, I have wanted to do law – as I believe I have the personality and drive for it.”
Her advice for 2017 matriculants is to do as many past papers as they can; and they mustn’t be afraid to ask others (teachers or peers) for help.
