Health Science Reviews

by Linia Zambezi

It is only September 2023, but I already have so much to reflect on. Coming to UCT was scary, being at the “African Harvard school” I had no idea what to expect. I came from a very small institution, so this was a very big transition for me. Big university where I even had to use the shuttles to get to campus, WOW! I was proud of myself for making it here, but I was feeling a little overwhelmed. Not only was I coming to a different school, I was also coming to a new place so I had to adjust to a different environment where I knew no single soul. As if I wasn’t challenged enough, I took on Bioinformatics, I had never coded my entire life, all I really knew were the mere basics of how to use a computer, but here I was. This was beyond my wildest dreams! I took the course with a positive mindset, ready to learn. And let me tell you, this course has exposed me to so many interests I never knew I had. As is I am already looking forward to doing my Masters. I just thought I would do my Honors and that would be it for me but look at me dreaming big. I adjusted so well but this was because my program convener made sure we were all comfortable and at ease, my course mates were also very helpful. I made some very good friends too which is a milestone for my introverted self.

I have made it this far, not feeling overwhelmed but rather empowered. I really feel like I could achieve anything even beyond that which I can imagine. To let you in on a little secret, Bioinformatics wasn’t my first choice but sometimes denial is redirection by God, and I see it now! His plan for me is greater than what I thought possible for myself.