Page 16 - Careers in Mathematics

Mathematics Lecturer My good fortune continued through to high school where, again, I
had inspirational mathematics, biology, and physical science
teachers. These experiences laid a firm foundation for my resolve to
build a career using mathematics.
If ever there
were a story
That said, I certainly did encounter setbacks. I registered to write
about the
Dephney
Standard Grade mathematics for my final matric examination only
Mathebula
convergence
to find that through an error I was given the wrong paper and
of passion,
wound up writing the Higher Grade exam which I failed, despite
perseverance
passing all my other matric subjects. Casting aside my shame at
and problem- failing and with the encouragement and support of my family, I
solving, then
repeated my matric year, this time, passing mathematics on
this is it. Dr Mathebula is a shining Standard Grade.
example of someone who, despite the
odds, has made an outstanding and I then registered for a BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science at
rewarding career based on
the University of Venda. Having never switched on a computer or
mathematics. Her story is inspiring and seen, let alone used a mouse before, I was at a huge disadvantage
motivating.
trying to learn to program and did not do well in this first-year
course – though I did pass both the mathematics and statistics
My love for mathematics was born
modules. In my second year, I switched degrees to a BSc in
whilst at Muyexe Primary School in
Mathematics and Statistics. There were a few bumps in the road
Limpopo. I was fortunate to have
whilst completing my undergraduate degree – I had no mentors,
brilliant mathematics teachers who
failed a few courses along the way and encountered financial
displayed an innate sense of joy when difficulties. There were indeed times that I wanted to give up,
teaching us mathematics. however, my parents convinced me that I might be permanently
Dr My older sister had also discovered a of Venda with a BSc degree in Mathematics and Statistics in 2008
disadvantaged if I did not persevere. I graduated from the University

talent for mathematics. When we did
and went on to complete a BSc Honours in Mathematics.
homework together, her delight each
time she was able to solve a
mathematical equation or arrive at the In my mind and the absence of meaningful career guidance, I had
always pictured me working as a Statistician for Statistics South
correct answer was infectious. Africa, but it was whilst doing my first BSc Honours in Mathematics
at the University of Venda in 2008 that the African Institute of

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