Health Science Reviews

By Karabo Tisane

My honours year has been a fluctuating learning curve. Just when I thought I had conquered a moment of confusion, another layer of complexity revealed itself. If this year has taught me anything, it’s that learning is rarely linear, learning is an ever-evolving process that requires humility, persistence and willingness to embrace not knowing. I have learned that asking questions is not a weakness but a necessary step in developing true understanding.

The modular structure of the honours programme exposed me to a broad spectrum of topics, from the intricacies of gene expression in Hox genes to the futuristic realities of organ engineering. It felt like a roller coaster of abstract, yet feasible scientific concepts. And yet the most rewarding part was realising that these concepts were not isolated. There was always a connection between them. Recognising those connections became a personal highlight. The ability to link knowledge across disciplines made me appreciate not just the content but how science itself is beautifully interconnected.

On of the steepest challenges I faced this year was the academic writing process. No one prepared me for how isolating it can feel to sit with mountains of literature and synthesise it into something original. The discipline, time management and internal motivation required to complete a writing assignment have stretched me in ways I did not expect. Most of all I have come out the other end with a powerful new skill, the ability to communicate complex science concepts with clarity and confidence.

Of course, honours has not only been about reading and writing. One of the most exciting aspects of this year was stepping into the lab. Being trusted with a meaningful, hands-on research task was daunting but mostly thrilling. After years of reading dry method sections in scientific papers I finally got to do some of the techniques myself. Learning how to perform real laboratory procedures transformed my understanding of experimental science from abstract to
tangible. An experience I will forever cherish.

In the end. Honours has been rigorous, demanding and at times overwhelming, but above all its been deeply rewarding. Every fall, every moment of doubt or confusion was part of a bigger learning pathway. I have come to see those moments not as setbacks but as necessary steps in becoming more reflective, capable and resilient scientist. Honours did not just teach me about melatonin, genetics or lab protocols, it taught me how to learn. And that is a skill I will carry forward, long after the year is over.