Heila Tara Oosthuizen

She would like to see a world where all children have decent opportunities that will enable them to reach their full potential.

Heila is studying medicine at the University of Stellenbosch. She matriculated at Framesby High School in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.

“Never expect to start at the top but be willing to diligently work your way up.”

Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?

I know that I won’t be happy and content in life, unless I pursue a career that I find truly fulfilling and meaningful. Actively helping others on a day-to-day basis is very exciting. I find the human body fascinating and I would love to understand its complexities to make a meaningful contribution to the well-being of others.

Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?

My father has been a great inspiration. From a young age he fostered a love for the natural sciences in me and he greatly supported me in my choice of studying medicine.

What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?

I would like to see a world where all children have decent opportunities that will enable them to reach their full potential and where people are held accountable for their parenting choices.

Where did you complete your schooling? Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.

I completed my schooling at Framesby High School in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. Framesby High School is an Afrikaans school that strives to maintain exceptional values and foster an environment where learners can excel in academics, culture and sports. I was blessed with wonderful teachers who were all very supportive, caring and understanding. My headmaster, Mr Germishuys, also fully believed in me and encouraged me to excel academically.

What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?

I love how logical these subjects are and how systematic problem-solving always leads to a definitive answer. Finding a solution to a complex mathematical question or understanding a natural process or phenomenon feels very rewarding.

Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?

I think a lot of students struggle with maths and science because they do not have a proper understanding of the foundational concepts of the subjects. With these two subjects, putting in an effort and having proper tutoring from the beginning is vital. If you don’t understand the basic concepts, you won’t be able to apply knowledge to solve difficult questions or understand more complex concepts. I would strongly recommend using past papers to test your knowledge and to help you identify your weak areas. Once you’ve done that, ask for help and use the various resources that are available.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

Enjoy your final moments in high school. The final two years are very busy and go by very quick – make the most of every day. Prioritise maintaining a balanced lifestyle as well. With all the exams, especially in Grade 12, you run the risk of facing a burnout. So, make sure to rest and have some fun amidst all the studying. When it comes to exams, make time to plan carefully, work according to a proper schedule and set targets. Once you have covered all the content, work through as many old examination papers as possible.

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

Start applying as soon as possible and make sure to get all the relevant information from the institutions so that you know what is required in advance. Don’t leave your applications for the last minute either. Rather apply and change your applications later if you still feel uncertain. With regard to choosing a field of study, get to know yourself, do personality tests, interview people in the field, and do job shadowing so that you get to know what the field is like.

Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?

An achiever is someone who achieves success, especially through hard work. Often people are considered achievers when they achieve what others define as success. However, a true achiever is someone who is able to work diligently towards a goal and accomplish it. Everyones goals look different. Do not compare yourself to others. Have your own dreams and the ambition to work toward them. Remember that nothing worth having will ever be easy to attain. Believe in yourself, be grateful and remain humble.

A message to South African youth in general?

I truly believe that anyone who really wants to build a better life will find a way to achieve their goal. Never expect to start at the top, but be willing to diligently work your way up. If you are able to persevere, despite various difficulties that come across your path, you will be able to achieve whatever you put your mind to.

A message to the teachers at your school/s?

As a learner, your teachers will have a huge impact on your life, and this can either be positive or negative. Learners can either be built up or broken down. I have been very blessed with incredible teachers throughout my primary and high school journey. They have always encouraged and believed in their learners and were willing to go the extra mile. They have approached their learners with care and understanding. I want to say to all my teachers, your efforts have been seen and are deeply appreciated. Your kindness has filled my life. Thank you.

If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?

Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, Mr President, please share your long-term vision for how the government plans to address the social challenges related to substandard educational opportunities and poor literacy outcomes for the majority of children in disadvantaged areas of South Africa.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)