Johannesburg - Heinz Klingenberg cites dedication, discipline, and consistency as the drivers behind his academic success.
Heinz was named in Gauteng’s top achievers list for obtaining more than five distinctions. He obtained five distinctions in English home language, Afrikaans first additional, life orientation, geography and life sciences.
The Fourways High School pupil said he had always known that yielding remarkable results would also demand extra effort, something he prided himself on.
“My matric year was no different from any other year in the way that I approached it. My marks leading up to Grade 12 have always been consistent as a result of my dedication, discipline, and tested study methodology. What I can say is that the year, however, went faster than I expected.
Once we reached the prelims, the momentum just continued towards the finals.
“Yes, I did have an effective study plan, as I have had all my years of schooling. Working hard every day, planning ahead, and putting in that extra effort in the mornings and late evenings helped me achieve my academic goals. My plan was to prepare for the prelims as if they were my finals, so that when the finals came, I did not feel pressured,” he said.
Asked if he took part in any extracurricular activities, Heinz said: “I was the captain of the school’s first teams for cricket and hockey, and I also played in the first team soccer. From a leadership perspective, as a senior councillor, I was involved in many school activities and continued to execute my duties to serve and lead by example.”
He said sports formed a crucial part of his final year.
“My matric year had plenty of highlights, as I savoured every schooling event of my final year with my friends and matric group. Being a sportsman at heart, it was important for me that I continue to contribute to my school in various sports, celebrating each game and match as if it were the last.
“It was also a privilege to guide and mentor the juniors in the teams to ensure that I leave a legacy that I can be proud of.
“Our valediction prize giving was also a highlight for me, as I was rewarded for my commitment and hard work within the school. I was also invited to the University of Johannesburg’s Orange Carpet event for academic scholarship achievers,” he said.
“I was also privileged to be part of one of the University of Johannesburg’s hockey teams during the hockey season where I gained valuable experience and made new friends. This has made me very excited about my future, as I will be studying at UJ this year.”
He spoke fondly of his family, mentioning that they have always shown him support.
Because of his love for sports, Heinz planned to become a chiropractor specialising in sports-related injuries, aiding in the rehabilitation of top athletes.
The Star