MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Amy Olivier (17) had music aspirations when she was younger, and although she hasn't completely abandoned these passions, she's now leaning more towards Meredith Grey than Lana Del Rey.
Meredith is the main character in the hit medical series, Grey's Anatomy and Lana is a Grammy-nominated singer songwriter.
Having attained seven distinctions, she earned herself the top achiever badge at the matric results ceremony for Curro Mossel Bay on Monday afternoon, 13 January.
Mossel Bay Advertiser asked about her future plans and what the last 12 years had taught her.
She considered studying in London, where she grew up, but since she only turned 17 in matric, she's hoping to gain a little more life experience before moving so far from home.
"I'm hoping to study a BSc in Applied Medicinal Chemistry at Stellenbosch." She explained this is an interdisciplinary degree that essentially combines biochemistry and physiology, leading to possible careers in forensics and medical research, "which I believe is perfect for me as I've always been interested in medicine, though I believe I'm a little too squeamish to be a doctor".
Self awareness
Naturally, one learns a few things along the road of your school career, but there's usually one or two that stick out. For Amy, it's the importance of self awareness.
"Whether that is knowing when to take a self-care day or when to sit down and work. Or understanding that not everyone likes everyone, but still having the conscience to be considerate of one another despite any predisposed opinions.
"I've learned an enormous amount about myself and others over the last few years and would like to believe I've grown a lot as a result of that."
School's-out-Amy is 100% a people's person who likes spending time with friends, which is an ideal way to get away from the books.
"But I also love the independent self-care activities: any form of exercise, playing the piano. I actually wanted to be the next Lana Del Rey when I was little and have no intention of sacrificing music as a hobby in university."
Support system
Taking a break when needed is important, but a support system is what gets you through the moments in between breaks.
"Knowing I can always rely on my family and close friends was my saving grace when it came to the most challenging parts of the year, even if that just meant going on a long walk with a friend and complaining about a difficult physics exam.
"When it comes to work ethic I would say keeping my long-term goal in mind was a huge motivator. I tend to always be in competition with myself, so I knew I wanted to look back on the year and be proud of the work I did despite what I may have achieved."
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