Health Science Reviews

By Sherin Nkosi

Oh my, where do I even begin? I suppose the best place to start is at the very beginning. My Honours year at the University of Cape Town (UCT) began with an unexpected twist—I was two days late for my first class. This minor delay could have set the tone for the year, but instead, it marked the beginning of a journey filled with anticipation, challenges, and growth. From that first late step, I knew that this year would be unlike any other—a year of transformation and discovery.

One of the most enriching aspects of this year has been meeting new people. UCT is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences, and the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives I have encountered has been truly inspiring. Whether during lectures, lab sessions, or casual conversations in the corridors, each person brought something unique to the table. I remember the first day vividly—I spent it entirely by myself, sitting alone in class, navigating the intimidating hallways, and even having lunch alone. It was a lonely start, but it also gave me time to observe and reflect.
As the days passed, these solitary moments were replaced by connections that would define my year. The friendships I formed during this time went beyond mere acquaintances. These friends quickly became like sisters to me, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and a deep sense of belonging. We celebrated each other’s successes, shared notes and study tips, and provided comfort during challenging times. Whether we were pulling all-nighters before exams or taking breaks to explore the beautiful surroundings of Cape Town, these bonds created a sense of community that made the challenges of Honours more bearable. The connections I made are not just academic alliances but lifelong relationships that I will cherish forever.

Academically, the Honours level in medical science is as rigorous as I had anticipated—and then some. The coursework was intense, with complex concepts that required deep understanding and critical thinking. The research projects are demanding, pushing me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. There were times when I felt completely overwhelmed and doubted my abilities, questioning whether I was truly cut out for this level of study. The sheer volume of work, coupled with the high expectations, often pushed me to my limits. Yet, in those moments of doubt, I discovered the importance of resilience.

Resilience became my companion during moments of doubt, and in navigating the maze of academic expectations. I learned to seek help when needed, whether it was from my professors, who were always willing to provide guidance and feedback, or from my peers, who were going through the same struggles. My family also played a crucial role, offering words of encouragement and reminding me of my strengths when I felt like giving up. These support systems have been vital in helping me navigate the complexities of the year.

In addition to academic growth, this year has been a period of profound personal development thus far. I’ve learned to manage my time more effectively, balancing the demands of coursework, research, and personal life. I’ve also gained confidence in my abilities, realizing that I am capable of overcoming challenges that once seemed impossible. This year has taught me that growth often comes through adversity and that perseverance is key to success.

Looking back, my Honours year at UCT has been a transformative experience thus far. It has tested my strength, broadened my perspective, and deepened my relationships. Despite the challenges, or perhaps because of them, this year has been one of profound personal and academic growth—one that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. As I move forward, I do so with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed determination to continue learning and growing, both as a student and as an individual.