For many young students, the first year of university is a transformative experience filled with challenges, triumphs, and growth.
For Ms Ofentse Mabuye, an 18-year-old from the small town of Shatale in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, this journey has been about stepping out of her comfort zone, building her academic skills, and pursuing a future that aligns with her passion for finance and investment.
Reflecting on her path, Mabuye says her choice to enroll for a Bachelor of Commerce Extended Curriculum (General) at UKZN was intentional – grounded in her interest in finance and investment. ‘I chose UKZN because it has one of the best programmes in Banking, Finance, and Investment,’ she said.
Navigating her first year, Mabuye has demonstrated a strong commitment to her studies. ‘I excelled in Econ1D0 and Math 194, two out of the three modules I took,’ she said, adding that she has found first-year university life-enriching as she has made meaningful connections and grown personally. ‘I have learned a lot about myself, expanded my mindset, built skills, and formed relationships,’ she said.
Her academic strategy involved setting goals, attending lectures consistently, and actively engaging with her peers. ‘To prepare for tests and exams, I attended all my lectures and tutorials, set weekly study goals that I broke into daily targets, and I wasn’t afraid to ask for help from classmates, tutors, and lecturers.’ This commitment extended beyond her solo efforts: she also formed a study group with classmates to tackle past exam questions together where they would explain concepts to each other, making sure everyone understood before test day.
One standout experience involved her decision to join Enactus UKZN, an organisation that encourages entrepreneurial action. ‘I applied to be part of Enactus UKZN, and fortunately, I was called for an interview. A few hours before, I almost quit because I doubted myself,’ she said.
Looking ahead, Mabuye’s ambitions are clear. ‘I aspire to graduate with multiple distinctions on record time and to be part of an educational organization within the school,’ she said, emphasising her desire to make a positive impact. She believes that these platforms will not only help her grow, but allow her to advocate for issues she cares about.
Words: Samukelisiwe Cele
Photograph: Supplied