By Dintle Letsoalo
Wow, Honours 2026… where do I begin?
Moving to a different city, 15 hours away from home, to pursue my Honours degree was one of the biggest decisions I’ve ever made, and without a doubt, it was worth every moment. I still remember my first day of class. My professor immediately made us feel welcome, which made the transition much smoother than I had expected. With only three students in our stream, it didn’t take long for us to become close. Those two amazing ladies quickly became more than classmates—they became my best friends and, ultimately, the sisters I found away from home.
As the semester progressed, the reality of honours hit hard. The jump from
undergraduate studies to honours was significant, and the workload was unlike anything I had experienced before. There were long nights fuelled by caffeine, moments of self-doubt, and even a difficult period where I struggled with my mental health. Yet, despite the challenges, I gained something invaluable: a deeper appreciation for my own individuality. Honours taught me that you can no longer hide behind a large class of students. Your ideas, your voice, and your passion matter. It is a space where you are encouraged to think independently, challenge yourself, and grow into the scientist you
aspire to become.
Beyond academics, I had the opportunity to explore Cape Town. Coming from a small town in the Free State, the city felt like a completely different world. I fell in love with everything it had to offer—from the waves crashing against the shoreline and the salty ocean air to the vibrant people and the beautiful University of Cape Town campus. It became more than just a place where I studied; it became a place where I grew.
Looking back, being part of this programme has been a true blessing. It challenged me academically, strengthened me personally, and introduced me to people and experiences that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I will always be grateful for both the highs and the lows, because together they shaped not only the student I have become but also the person I am today.
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