Be the Best You Can Be from Day One, Says Summa Cum Laude Graduate

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Ms Kerryn Lowe, awarded a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics degree summa cum laude, attributes her success to maintaining a healthy balance in her life, keeping focused on the bigger picture and having a positive attitude towards her studies. 

Lowe matriculated from Scottburgh High School, electing to study at UKZN’s Dietetics Discipline. 

Her interest in health, medicine and science inspired a dream to study veterinary science, which was not to be, leading Lowe to Dietetics, a science that corresponded to her belief that proactive attention should be paid to health, rather than reactive treatment for preventable conditions. 

‘Dietetics isn’t only about treating an immediate condition, it is about lifestyle, encompassing community-based approaches to clinical hospital settings to food services as well as industry dietetics,’ said Lowe. 

‘Dieticians can positively influence so many lives, through providing empowering education, not just immediate solutions to problems.’ 

Lowe’s philosophy is that each decision determines the outcomes of one’s life, which influences her approach as a dietician and her pursuit of excellence. 

‘My motivation comes from within, with the attitude that being the best starts on the first day of first year, with each test, and determines your life, your career and your reputation. What you learn now builds foundations for further learning and decision-making.’ 

Lowe believes in maintaining a healthy balance in life, and in having a non-academic outlet. 

‘A one or two hour break doing what you love and then sitting down to work can save you four hours of aimless work,’ she said. 

Lowe credited her family - especially her father - and friends for their support. She also thanked her surrogate family in her ‘home away from home’, namely, her lecturers and class of fellow dieticians. 

Lowe is currently completing her postgraduate internship year, after which she will complete her Master’s and community service before registering as a clinical dietician. 

Christine Cuénod