Resilience and determination shape first-year success

First-year Financial Management student Nthabeleng Mohubedu (24) is determinedly embracing University life and focusing on her future. As she adapts to a new learning environment, she is building independence, strengthening her academic skills and making the most of every opportunity at the Tshwane University of Technology’ (TUT) Faculty of Economics and Finance.

Nthabeleng Mohubedu Mohubedu lives with Osteoporosis, a condition that affects her bones. She has used a wheelchair from a very young age and has faced various obstacles throughout her educational journey.

“Giving up has never been an option. I have always been dedicated to my education and whenever I face challenges academically, I keep pushing until I succeed,” she said.

Determined to complete her undergraduate qualification, Mohubedu transitioned from special schools, specifically designed to accommodate learners with disabilities, to University and quickly realised that adapting to a new environment would require perseverance.

“During both my primary and high school years, I attended special schools where the environment was designed to support learners with disabilities, with teachers who had the skills and experience to support learners with disabilities. The classrooms were wheelchair-friendly and the people employed at those schools understood our needs. Coming to University required a period of adjustment, as I had to adapt to a larger and more complex environment, navigate different parts of the campus and become accustomed to a new learning environment,” she explained.

While her mother is an important source of support, Mohubedu also credits fellow students at her residence for helping her settle into University life.

Mohubedu said senior students and friends regularly check on her and assist when needed.

“Their support has helped me adjust and made it easier to pursue my studies,” she said.

She added that the University also has a Disability Unit that promotes inclusion and awareness across campus, supports students with disabilities and helps ensure they can fully participate in University life.

According to her, University life has given her opportunities to become more independent and to improve her time management skills. Although balancing assignments, tests and personal responsibilities proved demanding at first, she has embraced the experience and continues to grow.

“Becoming independent and adjusting academically had its own challenges, especially since University life moves faster. Managing assignments, tests and personal responsibilities at the same time was difficult at first,” she said.

Mohubedu is focused on achieving her academic goals and making the most of every opportunity during her university journey. Through resilience, determination and a commitment to her studies, she continues to prove that challenges can become stepping-stones to success.