Emma Ford, Class of 2024 Brescia House School learner, combines her passion for science and art to achieve academic excellence. Picture: Supplied
A leaner from Brescia House School, Emma Ford reflected on her lowest moments, which came from having to multitask academically and artistically. She also faced the pressure of being in her final year while simultaneously taking on a leadership role at school.
But all her efforts paid off and her biggest highlight was being recognised with awards for both her academic achievements and her artistic work.
Emma said she was given the freedom to express her spiritual side, which allowed her to grow holistically, even as a science student.
“I have a deep passion for art, despite being science-orientated. Thus the award gave me a great sense of pride in the creative side of myself that I often downplay myself. Another highlight was being an Alpha facilitator for my school as I was able to make more connections across grades in my school as well as bond over my spirituality - being in the spirituality committee in my school helped ground me as a Catholic individual during the fast-paced of school,” said Emma.
Emma achieved an outstanding eight distinctions in the 2024 IEB matric exams.
She shared that in her first year at university, she aspires to support students facing similar challenges to hers — balancing art and science — while demonstrating her resilience and strength.
“I hope my first year of university will help me find myself better but I definitely would like to find myself where I can help people by using my strengths, whether artistically or scientifically.”
She said that during the peak of COVID-19, her biggest struggles were with interaction and communication. She had to shift her mindset to balance studying more intensely while nurturing her artistic side.
“I struggled with the lack of interaction during COVID. The lack of communication made me either hyper-focused on school or not focused at all as there was no distinction between school time and free time. Being in person for classes is a much better experience, even for someone who likes to self-study.”
She advises the Class of 2025 to prioritise their academics but emphasizes that it’s equally important to make memories and treasure every moment of their journey.
“To the class of 2025, I believe that they should remember to make good memories. Although marks are important, it is also your Matric year and the last year you will be with your grade so you need to treasure every last first and last day,” she said.
The Star
masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za