S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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Melissa Muller believes that health care should be accessible, equitable and affordable to all.
I chose to study mechatronic engineering because of my passion for mathematics and science. I find the interdisciplinary nature of this field particularly intriguing, since it will allow me to develop a diverse set of skills to address a variety of problems faced by society. This field of study will place me at the forefront of developing sustainable technologies in an ever-advancing world. I have always been an avid problem solver, and the enhanced decision-making skills that I will develop throughout my studies will further enable me to play to this strength of mine.
My uncle studied mechanical engineering, and for as long as I can remember, I have always found his stories particularly interesting to listen to. I remember sitting at the Christmas table thinking that I also want to follow a career in the field of engineering so that I might have the chance to experience all that he has. His son, my cousin, recently received his doctoral degree in engineering. My fascination with his ground-breaking research is my confirmation that I have chosen the right career path.
I am a firm believer that health care should be accessible, equitable and affordable to all. Although I may be taking a roundabout route, I want to further my studies in the field of biomedical engineering after I graduate as a mechatronic engineer. This approach may seem odd to some, but I believe that combining an engineering experience alongside with some form of medical training will enable me to provide a unique perspective to solving medical problems from an engineering point of view. I find innovation that stems from the collaboration of separate fields intriguing and believe that it is essential moving forward.
I attended Rhenish Girls’ High School, which is situated in Stellenbosch. The school is well- known for its hockey programme, and I was fortunate enough to have played for the school’s first team for three years. I also played for the water polo first team. This meant that I missed a lot of school due to sports tours. However, the teachers were extremely accommodating and always ensured that I stayed up to date with my work. They even helped me to reschedule tests so that I could write after school on days where my additional A-Levels examinations in mathematics and physics clashed with internal assessments.
I absolutely adored my mathematics and physical science teachers. They always went the extra mile to make classes enjoyable and interesting. For example, we would do experiments in class about the work that we were currently undertaking, which helped everyone to engage with the content on a deeper level. I also just love the logic and order that accompanies maths and science. There are a couple of fundamental rules that you must learn and understand, and after that you can apply them in interesting ways that require you to open your brain to all possibilities.
There is a perception that maths and science are too difficult for some people to understand, which results in a mental block towards these subjects. It is crucial to believe in yourself because a large part of success comes from confidence in your capabilities. Do not fear attempting a difficult sum and getting it wrong, since learning where you went wrong is a thousand times more important than getting everything right. When you are stuck, immediately avoid referring to the memorandum. Look at your notes and previous examples to try and figure it out from there first.
It is essential to know when to have fun and when to buckle down and study. If you are going to try and study 24/7 you are most probably going to burn out by the time you reach those all-important final examinations. Making time for family, friends, and doing the things that you love is incredibly beneficial for your mental health. This will make sitting down and studying so much easier when the time comes. Looking after yourself is just as important as doing past papers, because if you have a positive mindset, you will have more energy to study effectively.
I know that this is a stressful time, having been in your shoes last year, but do not be afraid of applying to your dream institution. Also, apply to more than one institution, just in case you do not get placement at your first choice for whatever reason. It is also important to remember that not getting into your dream institution is not the end of the world. When one door closes, another one opens. Stay positive and do what you can to the best of your abilities to maximise your chances of being accepted at your university of choice.
The key to success is consistency. The concept of consistency is applicable to all aspects of our lives, whether it be consistently working to achieve a better maths average or practicing consistently to get better at a particular sport. Developing a routine where you consistently work towards your goals makes you an achiever. Consistency is a skill that you can develop by implementing it in your daily life. For example, doing a maths past paper every morning will help to build your confidence and will allow you to identify the concepts that you are struggling with at an early stage.
Dream big, because if you truly put your mind to something, you will achieve it. Never give up on your dreams if things do not go your way. The obstacles that you must face on your journey towards achieving your goals, make the final destination even more special. Do not be afraid of asking for help when you are at a crossroads or when you feel that you are losing your way, because a cry for help is not a sign of weakness, but actually of strength.
Thank you for the key role that you have played in my life. Your constant support and guidance honestly go a long way in furthering our self-confidence. Thank you for teaching me life lessons both inside and outside of the classroom. School has been such an integral part of my life up until this point, and without your help, I would not have been prepared to move on to the next phase of my life. Keep on bringing energy and life to the classroom, because you really touch our lives in more ways than you know.
I would want to talk to Oprah Winfrey. She has played a vital role in funding women’s shelters, aiding schools, and advocated for mental health awareness. I would ask her about her journey to success, and all the obstacles that she had to overcome to achieve her dreams. I want to ask her about her secrets to her formidable perseverance and resolve, that have made her the successful and influential woman that she is today. Overall, I think that she would be a remarkably interesting person to have a conversation with, and that there is a lot that I can learn from her.
S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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