First-Years Reflect, Rebuild, and Rise Together with Professor Monnapula-Mapesela

By: Qiqa Penxa

Stepping into the second semester can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially after the first university exams. But what if students had a compass, a guide, and a robust toolkit to help them survive and thrive? That is precisely what the Pathways to Success sessions offer!

Imagine a space where deep reflection meets meaningful conversation, explicitly designed for you, the first-year student ready to overcome new challenges. The latest Pathways to Success session, part of the Extended Orientation Programme, was an evening rooted in possibility, under the empowering theme "Reflect, Rebuild, and Rise Together."

It commenced with Ms. Thando Qeqe, Programme Coordinator, whose heartfelt encouragement reminded every student that success is within reach, and that "failure does not disqualify anyone from greatness." In his welcome remarks, Dr. Pakiso Tondi, Director of Student Services and Development, breathed life and confidence into the room, urging students to "cling to their purpose" and remember their incredible capabilities. He also encouraged the students to engage with lecturers and ask questions – because the learning journey is collaborative.

The wisdom continued with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Professor ‘Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela. She anchored the evening with a powerful keynote address, emphasising the importance of utilising available resources, student agency, attending classes and moving forward, no matter the exam results. "You are stronger than you think, and your dreams are bigger than the challenges you have encountered”, she declared, a powerful reminder that hard work, commitment and resilience are key to growth.

Adding to this tapestry of inspiration, Professor Sandile Khamanga, Dean of Pharmacy, offered thoughtful words on the long-term value of grit and believing in the learning journey, even when the path ahead seems unclear. He urged students to "keep their eyes on the prize and not get lost in the noise."

The Intern Counselling Psychologist, Kgothatso Chiloane, brought a vital layer of emotional insight, highlighting the importance of mental well-being, self-care, and knowing when to ask for help. As he so perfectly put it: "Always remember that you were not accepted into the programme that you are doing by mistake. You were accepted because there was potential that was seen in you. You have the capabilities and abilities, which is why you are here today. You were chosen because someone saw something in you, and as you continue with your journey, it is important that you learn to see that potential in yourself too, even when the previous semester was tough.” It was a reminder that the students belong here and are capable of amazing things.

Imagine looking into the future and receiving advice from your successful self. Mrs. Kelly Vorster, a Student Academic Development Lecturer at the Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning (CHERTL), guided students through an incredible Q&A reflective exercise, inspiring them to look beyond current setbacks and envision the influential individuals they are becoming.

And then, with profound vulnerability, Ms. Omphulusa Nengwekhulu, a Rhodes University master’s graduate and a PhD candidate, provided the student voice by sharing her story, a living testament to what it means to "fail forward." Her powerful message resonated deeply, evident in the spread of vocal agreements and nods, and the questions directed to her: believing in yourself, especially after setbacks, isn't just brave – it is "necessary and a form of love for yourself."

Pathways to Success is not just another event; it is an evening that equips first-year students with a "toolkit for the future." They gain practical strategies, engage in honest conversations, and acquire practical strategies for lifelong growth. As Professor Monnapula-Mapesela always reminds them: "Your success is our priority… Do not let your background define you."

With initiatives like Pathways to Success, students are not just surviving university but learning how to rise with resilience, purpose, and power.