Health Science Reviews

by Migael Mouton

At the beginning of the year, I was terrified. Making the decision to leave the place where I studied for 3 years and to say goodbye to so many important people was extremely difficult. I knew how privileged and lucky I was to not only be accepted at UCT (this was a life-long dream) but to have funding as well. Still, I was terrified because I had no idea what was lying ahead of me.

Looking back, I realize that there is one lesson I learned this year. That the unexpected is beautiful and that change is essential. Having no idea how this year would unfold prepared me to take everyday as a new one and to have control over how I pursue it. A new environment with new people gave me the opportunity to start fresh, make this year however I wanted it to be and to give a name for myself while being myself.

Undoubtedly, the support from my Division is exactly what I needed. They made me feel part of a family and that no matter how many mistakes I make or struggles I go through, they were there and helped me through it. Letting myself be vulnerable in this stressful academic environment allowed me to grow as a student and to learn more than I ever before.

Although there were some bumps along the way during classes and assessments, I was able to adapt and overcome with their support. I realized the reason why I experienced this kind of growth is because I forced myself into a completely different environment. Change is essential. There is a long road ahead of me and now I am even more excited about the unexpected.