Mr Lungelo Khumalo, BSc Pharmacy Cum Laude (2020)
I am Lungelo Khumalo, 23, from Mandeni in KwaZulu-Natal. I went to Mathusizwe high school, a local non-fee high school in my area.
In 2017, I started studying for my B Pharm degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. I was funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for one year, and then the following year, I received an Umthombo bursary. The bursary paid for my studies until I completed my degree in 2020. In addition, Umthombo was kind enough to provide me with a mentor, with whom I met monthly and had a very active relationship.
A word to people who are about to embark on the journey I've just successfully completed: first, I think it's very important to be self-aware. What are your academic goals? For me, I think it all starts there – your personal belief about your academic abilities. When I would write down my target percentages for each module with my mentor, I'd never write anything less than 90%. This helped my mindset change, as I was continually aiming high. Our expectations affect our attitude, behaviour, and ultimately our performance.
![Dr Lungile](/sites/default/files/styles/square_scale_md/public/medial/images/2021-08/Cum-Laude-Student.jpg?itok=5iVetnmR)
Secondly, you have got to know the reason why! You have to have something that motivates you to maintain a positive attitude, even when things get tough. For me, it's my family, my younger brothers. Yes, I had to name them separately! You'll always find their pictures in my space. That's how I keep my sanity.
Lastly, you've got to have something you believe in! You have got to turn somewhere when it gets hard! I personally believe in God. When it gets tough, I pray.
They say we should choose our friends carefully so as not to be negatively influenced by them. But is that really possible? I say we should learn to be dominant over bad influences, dominant over distractions. Work so hard on yourself so that the environment doesn't determine your productivity and success.
I place on record my thanks and appreciation to the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation for having funded and supported me throughout my studies. Thank you, and God bless.
Lungelo Khumalo
Pharmacist