Gary Allen is studying electrical engineering

Gary Allen is studying electrical engineering at Stellenbosch University. He attended Rondebosch Boys’ High School in the Western Cape Province.

I believe an achiever is not necessarily someone who attains the highest award or the best trophy, but someone who sets their mind to something they would like to accomplish and attains it after continuous effort. This reward after hard work and dedication sets achievers aside from the rest.

Tell us a bit about your school

I went to Rondebosch Boys’ High School, which is a school in the Western Cape. They have a high focus on academics, especially maths and science, but are also very strong in sport, which is why I chose to go there (as they are generally a great well-rounded school!).

Why do people have a problem with maths and sciences?

I think some people may struggle with maths as they are not taught the basic concepts correctly initially, and from then on it becomes difficult to grasp more challenging ideas. I also believe a good teacher can make you very passionate about maths, which in turn makes you want to understand and learn more, but not everyone has this luxury.

Why do you enjoy maths and science?

I think they are both beautiful ways of encapsulating the world around us into well-defined rules, boundaries and definitions that can help us predict and solve real-world problems. Maths is not only the language of science and technology, but is a means of getting ideas across to solve problems that would be very difficult to solve without it. To build on this, I think it is amazing that maths is ultimately a man-made construct, but yet feels so real and so natural in so many ways.

What inspires you?

I am very inspired by new ideas and innovations, as well as people who are confident and wish to push themselves beyond their own boundaries. I believe that people who love maths and science should ultimately inspire and challenge each other to be better than before.

Why did you choose the course you are studying?

I chose to study engineering as I believe it is the ultimate way to consolidate my love for maths, science and technology in a way that is both innovative and practical. It is a perfect way to express my interest in technology and electronics by learning new concepts in order to build new things that can help people in their day to day lives.

A message to South African youth?

As a message to the youth of South Africa, I would like to say that, no matter your background or culture, I feel it is important to remember that if you really want something and you put your mind to it, it is attainable no matter the short-term boundaries that may stand in your way. I also believe we as a youth community should come together and encourage each other to “chase our dreams” in an attempt to build our country up higher and higher.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

I would advise the learners of Grade 11 and 12 to give it their all, as it really is the “final push” of a school career that has lasted 12 years, and this is the moment that can set you up for the rest of your life. I also feel that matriculants especially should really “put foot” for the final stretch when they write their exams, as it can really help when applying for institutions of higher education.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

In 10 years from now I would like to own my own company that specialises in electronics and computer engineering. I am extremely passionate about computers and would love to work with them when I grow older.

Understanding excellence – what makes and achiever?

I believe an achiever is not necessarily someone who attains the highest award or the best trophy, but someone who sets their mind to something they would like to accomplish and attains it after continuous effort. This reward after hard work and dedication sets achievers aside from the rest.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)