Summa Cum Laude Graduate Reflects on Her Journey of Growth, Language and Purpose

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For Ms Sonia Budhram, achieving a Bachelor of Arts degree summa cum laude in French and Media and Cultural Studies represents a significant milestone in her journey of perseverance, growth and discovery.

Reflecting on her achievement, Budhram describes it as a powerful marker of her time at university. “It reflects my entire experience at UKZN, all the studying, exam preparation, workloads and personal challenges I had to overcome,” Budhram said. “It’s a way to track my journey and the knowledge and skills I’ve gained over the past three years.”

Her dual focus on Media Studies and French was driven by both passion and purpose. With media playing an increasingly influential role in shaping modern society, Budhram recognised the importance of understanding it critically. “Media in its many forms is an ever-growing part of the modern world, and understanding it is an underrated but essential skill,” she explains.

Her interest in French, meanwhile, is rooted in a broader fascination with language and culture. “Learning another language gives you a deeper understanding of people and cultures,” she said. “It helps bridge gaps, encourages inclusion and expands the way we see the world.”

Despite her strong sense of independence as a student, Budhram credits the support of her lecturers and tutors as instrumental to her success. “I often preferred working on my own, but I always knew I could ask for help when I felt overwhelmed or unsure. That support made a real difference.”

Now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Media Studies, she is eager to build on this foundation. Her next chapter will focus on developing research and academic writing skills, while deepening her understanding of media as a discipline.

Beyond academics, Budhram remains motivated by a desire to make a meaningful impact. While she has not committed to a single career path just yet, a consistent theme has guided her ambitions. “I’ve always been drawn to helping people and the environment,” she says. “I hope to carry that into whatever career I pursue.”

For current and future students, her advice is both practical and thoughtful: stay organised, revise consistently, and manage your time, but also recognise the importance of balance. “Know when to take a break, and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she adds. “Support goes both ways - it’s just as important to help others along the journey.”

Words: Lorna Charles-Wright

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini