Reaching for the stars: SA prodigy to join Cambridge University’s elite computer science programme

The youngster’s admittance into one of the world's most demanding and sought-after programmes is a significant accomplishment, especially for a South African student. Picture: Supplied

The youngster’s admittance into one of the world's most demanding and sought-after programmes is a significant accomplishment, especially for a South African student. Picture: Supplied

Published Oct 3, 2024

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Minkyum Kim is going to study computer science at the prestigious University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, demonstrating his dedication and educational quality.

The youngster’s admittance into one of the world’s most demanding and sought-after programmes is a significant accomplishment, especially for a South African student.

Kim, who recently completed his A Levels at Reddam House Durbanville in the Western Cape with great marks, described his path to Cambridge as one of hard work, dedication, and passion.

He scored a whopping 95% in A Level physics, and an amazing 98% in A Level mathematics earlier this year.

As he prepared to leave for Cambridge, he expressed his excitement about the new tasks ahead of him.

“I was really happy, especially because I thought my Cambridge interview did not go as well as I had hoped. So seeing the ‘I am delighted’ on my decision letter was a nice surprise,” he said.

Kim chose computer science over mathematics because it allows him to create something tangible while still engaging in problem-solving.

“As for Cambridge, aside from being one of the top universities, I chose it over other schools like Oxford because I knew several people going there, and it felt like the right fit for me.”

The first stage of his application consisted of submitting his school grades and drafting a personal statement.

Cambridge has additional standards, so Kim had to write a test that selected candidates for interviews. After writing another test, he was interviewed. During the interview, they discussed the questions he struggled with on the previous test.

“There are a lot of things I am excited about—like living on my own and experiencing life in the UK, which I have never visited before.

“But what I am really looking forward to is meeting my friends from online communities in person. Some of them are also going to Cambridge, so it’ll be great to finally connect in real life.”

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