Health Science Reviews

By Thato Mdi

As I wrote the last words of the last sentence in my exam, a bittersweet feeling crept into my heart. I was relieved that I was finally done with exams, yet sad that the coursework portion of the degree had been over. Every lecture I had been a part of had been so captivating, with every lecturer speaking with passion and from experience of the content they lectured us on. Coming to the University of Cape Town had been very daunting at first, as I’d been worried whether I’d actually be able to make it here. What was there to expect? But I was ready to take on the challenge. Arriving and meeting fellow honours students that had also come from other universities had made me feel better, and everyone in the Human Genetics department had been very supportive, training us in the lab and exposing us to some of the techniques we would be using in our research projects. It had been so amazing to test our DNA to confirm our blood groups, RH factor, as well as our sexes, and I was so excited to tell anyone I’d met that I was working with my actual DNA.

Pharmacogenomics had been my favourite module in the course, as it opened my eyes to the gravity and importance for scientists in Africa to do Pharmacogenomics research on African populations, so that the vast diversity found in the genomes of African populations is better represented when studies for pharmaceuticals that will be/are widely used in African populations are done, to decrease the outcome of adverse drug effects. I found myself personalising the content I had learnt, and so determined to contribute to the already growing body of knowledge.

Now, on the flight back to tackle the second half of my honours year, I find myself feeling exhilarated by the thought of working in the lab. My project involves discovering the disease-causing genes in a family affected with Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Growing up, I’d watch every episode of Grey’s Anatomy, hoping that I would one day become a Cardiothoracic surgeon.  Getting into BSc in undergrad and not medicine had me down a bit until I realised that I actually really enjoyed genetics. My inner child is happy to know that I’m still working with the heart, and even though I may not be a  Cardiothoracic surgeon, I can still be a Cardiac Geneticist. I love that life continues to work out, even when you don’t think it will. 

It’s such a blessing to be trained by the best, because that is the path to becoming the best. I’m not yet sure what impact I can make to improve the field as of yet, but I am confident that I am taking the steps in the right direction. I thank God for the opportunity given to me to be here. I am open to learning more, engaging more, and sharing more.