A Verulam teenager's bold decision to retake matric paid off spectacularly, transforming his 60% aggregate into five distinctions and securing his path to electrical engineering studies.
In 2023, Reece Sing, 19, wrote his matric at Mountview Secondary, in Verulam. At the time he had suffered a broken arm and had a scribe write for him. He obtained a Bachelors pass.
The 19-year-old, Oaklands resident, said he decided to retake matric because while his results were decent, it did not reflect his full potential.
“I knew I could do better and I wanted to ensure I gave myself the best possible opportunity to pursue my dream studies at university,” said Sing.
He added he determined to do better the second time around and took the steps to do so.
“The first time, I passed with a 60% average, which wasn’t terrible, but I knew I could do better.”
Sing passed the 2024 matric exams with five distinctions and plans on studying electrical engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
He achieved an 82% aggregate with distinctions in physics, maths, EGD, information technology and life orientation.
“The second time around, I really focused and worked harder. In addition, I received the award for the highest mark in EGD and the Principal’s Award. I was really proud of the improvement I had made,” said Sing.
He said it was his dream to study electrical engineering.
“It is a field that can lead to many exciting opportunities and a good career,” he added.
He said redoing matric without his friends was challenging.
“But the class I got into was really welcoming. I made new friends quickly and this made the experience a lot easier to bear. I had a lot of pressure on myself to perform well. In the end, I am glad I stuck with it,” said Sing.
He added his parents were initially sceptical about his decision.
“My parents did question my decision. My mom was particularly worried about what people would think and whether it would affect my future. My dad was more upset than anything else. But in the end, they both understood that I was making the decision for my future, even if it was a difficult one.
“I would tell those who are thinking of retaking matric – go for it! It’s okay to take a step back and retake matric if it means improving your future prospects. Don't fear what others think and hold yourself back. Always focus on what’s best for you and your future goals,” said Sing.