Top Achieving Trio

BY: .

Leading the way in the 2015 class of Bachelor of Science graduates in the Life and Earth Sciences (LES) stream were Ms Kajal Reedoy, Ms Shinese Ashokcoomar and Ms Jananee Padaychee who all received BSc degrees (Genetics and Microbiology) summa cum laude. 

‘It feels surreal to graduate summa cum laude,’ said Ashokcoomar.   ‘I still can’t believe that I have achieved this. I’m glad all my hard work has paid off – it’s truly an elated feeling!’  

Reedoy agreed.  ‘Seeing the words “Degree Completed - Summa Cum Laude” after my third-year final exams brought about an indescribable feeling of exhilaration, relief and gratitude.’ 

Ashokcoomar said practicals were the most interesting part of her degree and helped a lot in understanding theory. ‘The pracs intrigued me and it made studying theory worthwhile. It was nice to see how what I learned could be applied practically and in the real world.’ 

Reedoy says studying Microbiology and Genetics has broadened her perspectives as a young scientist. ‘Merely learning about the ways in which such minute organisms impact the human population globally has kept me captivated, intrigued and wanting to know more,’ she said. 

Padayachee said what she enjoyed most was learning about techniques such as RNA interference and genome editing, that could be used to help cure diseases and disorders. 

While Ashokcoomar and Reedoy are currently continuing with their Honours degrees in medical microbiology, Padayachee has opted to specialise in genetics.  

All three had advice for students keen to be high achievers:  ‘Set reasonable short term goals and make sure you do whatever is required to achieve them,’ said Ashokcoomar. ‘Don’t procrastinate because the work will just pile up and you’ll end up more stressed than you were originally. Manage your time efficiently and make sacrifices if necessary because they will eventually pay off.  Surround yourself with people who help you grow and push you to achieve your full potential.’ 

Said Padayachee: ‘Stay organised and plan ahead. Finish assignments and reports in advance, so you don’t get stressed by the due date, and have enough time to study for tests.’ 

‘The key to getting anywhere in life is to love and enjoy what you do,’ advised Reedoy. ‘As a young scientist, be passionate, ask questions, but most importantly take time to understand everything around you. Never stop challenging yourself; you will be surprised at what you are capable of.’ 

The three top achievers thanked their parents, family and close friends as well as their lecturers in UKZN’s School of Life Sciences. 

Sally Frost