Health Science Reviews

by Nicole Kantor

It’s hard to believe that we have reached the point in our Honours year, where it’s time to reflect. I remember sitting at one of the 1^st Sci comm sessions, where we were told about writing a reflection. I couldn’t even see myself getting there. But I did, and I am so proud!

2023 has been a whirlwind. New people. A new campus. A lot of challenges. Often when we reflect, we tend to remember the positives, and the good, so I will start there. This year, I have not only gained scientific knowledge and skills, but I’ve gained life-skills. I’ve been pushed out of my comfort zone, I’ve learnt to bounce back after failed experiments and tough days, and I’ve learnt to regulate my emotions and to be resilient. I have met people that have become good friends whom I can’t imagine not seeing every day. I have been engulfed within the fantastic science community at UCT and have been made to feel like I belong. I have learnt to trust the process and myself. Lastly, I have learnt to plan and manage my time, two skills, which I believe, can make, or break your honours year. These are skills that a degree cannot teach you, but I have learnt them whilst completing my degree.

Honours has also come with overwhelming challenges and work stress, but once again, I’ve been reminded that hard work and diligence pays off.

I’m very thankful to be exactly where I am right now. And while there’s been positives and negatives, I wouldn’t change a thing because they have shaped my imperfect ‘’perfect’’ experience.