POLOKWANE – Rirhandzu Maluleke was one of Mitchell House College’s top matriculants in the 2014 senior certificate examinations.
Her subjects in gr. 12 were English, Afrikaans, life orientation, life sciences, geography, physical science and pure mathematics.
She obtained a distinction in geography.
“My favourite subject was physical science because I’ve always been fascinated with mechanics and the laws that define nature, so having to learn it was truly exciting for me,” says Rirhandzu.
Asked what she wanted to become when she was seven years old, she said: a doctor.
She started her school career at Laerskool Chris Hofmeyer before enrolling at Mitchell House, and has since been accepted to study actuarial science at Wits.
“The course requires a lot of pure maths. We will be dealing with financial maths, statistics and so forth,” she says.
Balancing her social life, academics and extra-mural activities was not easy, but she says she was not much of a social person, which made it easier for her to focus on what is important. She participated in athletics, netball and soccer.
“I was also part of the hiking club. I think it is extremely important to take part in sport in gr. 12 because it helps to relieve one of the stress of school and also helps to take your mind off all the school work.”
She says her brother-in-law is her role model.
“He always told me to be better than my past and never aim for anything mediocre because with hard work I could achieve anything.”
The support of her older sister and her husband means a lot to Rirhandzu.
“”These are the two people who have influenced my academic career the most, as well as my grandmother who would call her every week to make sure I was studying,” she says.
Rirhandzu sees herself completing her degree in actuarial science in five years.
“I did a bit of community service with two of my classmates at Samaritan Centre doing laundry, ironing, cleaning the house and making food for the children.
“The experience taught me to appreciate what I have because not everyone is given the opportunities I am given to fully explore their talents. I am truly blessed to have those things and more.”
