Physiotherapy graduate Ms Kathryn Foulkes completed her degree at the top of her class, scooping the Best Overall Student prize at the College of Health Sciences award ceremony.
‘I am very happy to have completed this degree and thankful I had the opportunity to study at a first class university such as UKZN,’ said an elated Foulkes.
‘I never expected the results I obtained but hard work, determination and perseverance enabled me to exceed all expectations.’
Foulkes did not only surprise herself she also made her parents proud by being the first person in the family to obtain a degree.
According to Foulkes, with hard work and a strong mind set anything is possible. ‘That’s the attitude I’ll take forward as I enter the working world with all the challenges there.’
Currently doing her community service, future plans include working with children and completing a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy.
‘My will to succeed as well as an amazing support system I have at home encourages me to reach new heights,’ said Foulkes.
She advised those still working towards their degrees to be disciplined, organised and prepared for whatever comes their way while studying. ‘Be passionate each and every day and remember why you started,’ she said.
Foulkes, who was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, moved to Durban with her parents when she was eight years old, completing her matric at Danville Park Girls High School in Durban North.
She is grateful to her parents for the love and support they give to her and her siblings. I am so grateful for all they’ve done for us – I wouldn’t have achieved all I have done without their unconditional love and support.’
Words: Nombuso Dlamini