GEORGE NEWS - Most students want to do as little as possible during school holidays, but others, especially matriculants, use that time to attend winter or summer schools. Jewlin Jonkers, an Outeniqua High School learner, attended a week-long accounting winter school at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) George Campus.
Here Jewlin discovered that he can do anything he puts his mind to and he was named best student of the week.
"I also found out that hard work really does pay off." He learned new study techniques and especially time management. He said it gave him new inspiration to do well enough in the matric exams to gain varsity exemption.
He wants to pursue a career in accounting, aiming to become a chartered accountant. The winter school course, he believes, assisted him towards achieving this. "I sacrificed a part of my holiday but I believe it's for my own good. I also enjoyed the pre-varsity experience." Some 200 learners attended the winter school, some staying on campus and others being shuttled in every day. Jewlin says study and learning opportunities like this enables matriculants to assess their knowledge levels and readiness. It enables them to identify gaps in their learning, talk to their peers and in so doing sharpen their subject knowledge and skills.
He enjoyed the relaxed and non-threatening style of teaching. "You're not afraid to experiment or make mistakes. This enabled me to learn better." The experience also helped Jewlin to make an important decision regarding his future.
"NMU's accounting school has been known to produce the best results among varsities in South Africa. Thus I have applied and trust that this experience will put me in a better position to be accepted or acquire a bursary."
The simple layout and neatness of the campus also contribute to a good learning environment.
Jewlin was surprised that his achievement at the winter school was much better than he expected. The experience was priceless, he said, and he would recommend it to the next bunch of learners.
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