Hi. My name is Malusi Somzana, a first year B.Com (Accounting) UCT student. I was part of the Maths Centre project at Holy Cross High School in Mthatha.

For me as an individual this program ignited, or rather birthed something inside of me. I received an education which went out of the borders of a classroom - my life was orientated. The technology that was used and the manner in which the content was demonstrated gave me the platform to think and see the bigger picture. Well, what do I mean by that? Let me explain…

The way they (Maths Centre) taught us maths made me see how the use of numbers and algorithms are connected with real life situations and the array of careers it offers. I was also able to connect with the educator on many forefronts. The material was also very good. The programme also changed the way I approached my studies particularly in maths.

Let me show you the results that followed because of this. Get ready…

• I never got a mark less than 90% in my exams as from grade 11.
• I was the top student in maths in a district project held by the Dept. of Transport.

Not warm enough? There's more…

• I wrote the South African Mathematics Olympiad, and was in the top 101 in my province (2^nd round, Eastern Cape).
• I attended the provincial Thuthuka camp in March 2009, Port Elizabeth, and… wait for it… was the top student in Maths in an exam written in the camp. Keep in mind this is where students from around the province were packed in one-place.

Getting to a boiling point…

• I was the top student in my district in the 2009 matric maths exam with an impressive 99%.
• I got accepted into a top university and I am still at it.

To also give you guys a hint of my future plans. I am hoping to graduate, then go on to qualify as a CA(SA), chartered accountant. Then get some experience. Afterwards do an MBA or executive MBA in either UCT or Wits. Climb up the corporate ladder and be the best I can be.

Thank you for the opportunity you gave me. I can now bravely say I optimised the support you gave me and I am now on a road to success, the road you built for me.

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