Ria Nkgadima

Ria is studying a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil) at the University of the Witswatersrand.

My grade 9 Maths teacher, Mr Kamal, made me realise that I really love maths. I think it was because he was a patient teacher and tried his best to make us understand everything we needed to understand at that time.

When/how did you realise you enjoyed science and mathematics more than your other school subjects?

I realised I was better in Maths and Science than in my other subjects when I easily solved problems that others found very challenging. My grade 9 Maths teacher, Mr Kamal, made me realise that I really love maths. I think it was because he was a patient teacher and tried his best to make us understand everything we needed to understand at that time.

Tell us a bit about your school.

The high school I attended is an ordinary school situated just outside the CBD of Middelburg, Mpumalanga. It is neither huge nor small, although it starts from grade 1 right through to grade 12. It is situated in an urban area. The diverse cultures of the students make the school special.

Why did you choose to study civil engineering?

Mainly because of my passion for maths and science! Since my high-school days, I have been good in maths and sciences. I knew that whatever career I would take on one day would include both these subjects. More than anything, I was fascinated by skyscrapers and extraordinary infrastructure I would see on television or read about in newspapers. I took that and my love for maths and science and decided on civil engineering.

Any other stories/tips/ideas/advice you would like to share that would be helpful to learners in Grades 11 and 12?

No matter what happens, DO NOT STOP STUDYING! Sometimes your hard work may not be reflected in your results the way you were hoping it would, but do not let that discourage you. Instead, let it be the driving force in your studying, make it the reason you push harder, look for what you are doing wrong and what you are missing, then try your best to fix it, instead of concluding that you are not good enough. Also, remain focused on what you want to become at all times, have the highest aspirations, aim to reach the very top and work for the best firms. Always remember: Minimum effort equals minimum results.

Did you encounter any challenges that made it difficult for you to excel in maths and science?

My biggest challenge in high school was the criticism and bad attitude of some fellow learners towards me. To overcome these challenges, I kept on telling myself every single day that I was born to stand out and be the “sore thumb”. I ended up believing it, and that got me really far.

What/ Who inspires you?

My biggest inspiration is my father. He is my biggest fan; I wouldn’t be where I am today if it was not for his support, understanding and concern regarding my studies. A simple phone call from him is motivation that goes a very long way, because he listens to me and gives the best advice. If anything, I owe my success to him.

Where do you see yourself five years from now, in terms of your studies/career?

In five years’ time I see myself studying towards a postgraduate degree in civil engineering. More than anything, I want to get educated.

What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places at higher education institutions?

You have probably heard this several times, but I cannot sufficiently emphasise the importance of doing what you love. Find and know yourself, then choose the path you want to pursue. It is your life, what you become one day should be up to you. Passion promotes excellence, and it is only through excelling that we can reach the very top.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)