She also had a “secret weapon” when it came to preparing for the exams.
REMAINING calm and not getting overwhelmed by the pressure of the 2020 National Senior Certificate examinations was key for the Northern Cape’s top performing matric pupil, Gabbi Shae Christians.
Christians, who attended Kimberley Girls’ High School, was on Tuesday crowned the Province’s Top Achiever in the 2020 matric exams.
She is also the 2020 Top Life Science Achiever and one of the candidates in the Province who achieved seven Level 7s.
She started her schooling at Newton Primary School in Kimberley and has received numerous awards throughout her school career.
Christians, who was elected Deputy Head Girl at Girls’ High last year, obtained first place in her grade from Grade 8 to Grade 11.
She, however, did not expect to walk away with the Province’s Top Achiever award.
“I was not expecting to be the best performer in the Province. Last year was tough but I only did what was in my control. I did not consult any other platforms when I was studying as I felt overwhelmed by the resources which were available. I only devoted time to my studying and used the resources we received from school,” Christians said.
She said that she had missed being in a “normal” classroom environment last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic and national lockdown.
“We did not spend a lot of time at school and when we were at school, it was under strict regulations. I missed the class interaction. I did, however, have the support of my family during that time,” she said with a smile.
Christians said she had a “secret weapon” when it came to preparing for the exams.
“My secret weapon is my dad. He helped me when I had to prepare for my mathematics and physical science examinations,” she laughed.
Her plans now are to study chemical engineering at university.
“I am going to study at the University of Stellenbosch. I am looking forward to the new chapter in my life.”
She urged her peers who did not pass their final exams not to lose hope.
“This is not the end of the world. There are more important and better things to look forward to. There is always another chance to enhance and improve yourself … this is not the end,” Christians said.
