So far, so great

Punaje Lorna Kuvare in Stellenbosch, South Africa.



I was born and raised in Windhoek. I went to Pionierspark Primary School from grade one to seven and I attended high school at St Paul’s College. I was an active member of my community as I played sports and was a member of numerous outreach programmes. I strived for academic excellence and used every opportunity at my disposal to further my studies and help me achieve my dreams.

Ever since I was in grade six, I knew that I wanted to attend Stellenbosch University. I am a first-year bachelor of accounting (BAcc) student. I chose accounting because the BAcc degree can open many doors for me. There are numerous career paths that will be open to me once I am a chartered accountant.

My weekdays are quite boring. I spend them attending lectures, going to the student centre, called Neelsie, to work with friends or sitting in the garden and enjoying the beautiful Stellenbosch weather. My weekends are usually spent sightseeing, spending time with friends or doing some self-care. I love jogging and Stellenbosch is the perfect place for me to continue my hobby. The small town has wonderful views. There are beautiful trees that line the streets of Stellenbosch. It is amazing to see the leaves on the trees change colour when the seasons change.

Surprisingly, managing my finances was one of my biggest challenges. It is quite ironic since I am studying accounting. Fortunately, I have been able to overcome that hurdle. At first, I struggled to balance my social life and academic life, but I soon realised what my priorities were. Time management is also something that I struggled with.

One semester has taught me that I will not receive the same marks that I received in high school. I also learnt that marks are directly proportionate to effort. In order to do well, one needs to put in the work and effort.

My words of wisdom to any student is doing past papers will save your life and remember to take care of yourself. Yes, your marks are important, but your health is even more important. I would also encourage students to choose their career path based on what they want to do.

Someone once told me that slow progress is better than no progress and that keeps me going. No matter what stands in your way, just keep going and remember that your best will always be good enough. Make memories you will be proud to share.