Matric year is full of pressure – prelims, finals, farewell plans and the ever-looming question: What are you doing next year?
The truth is, deciding what to study – and where – can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity. Your post-matric journey doesn’t have to follow anyone else’s script – and with a range of tertiary institutions around the country – and on our own doorstep – offering diverse and future-focused courses, there are plenty of options to explore.
Here are some practical, reassuring tips to help you find your way:
Start with curiosity. You don’t need to have your whole career planned out. Start by exploring what excites you. Visit open days, scroll through course lists, and attend virtual info sessions. Ask questions – even if you’re unsure. This is a chance to find out what you like and don’t like.
Know how you learn best. Do you prefer hands-on learning, practical workshops, or academic theory? Durban offers everything from universities to vocational colleges and niche academies. Choosing the right learning environment is just as important as choosing a subject.
Think in skills, not just careers. The job market is changing fast. Instead of focusing solely on job titles, think about what skills you’d like to build. Love fashion? You could explore design, textile innovation or retail business. Into gaming? Think game development, coding or digital storytelling.
Talk to real students. Try to connect with someone who’s already doing the course you’re considering. Their experience – from workload to campus life – will give you a more honest view than any brochure ever could.
It’s okay to change your mind. Plenty of students switch courses or directions in their first year. Tertiary education is a journey, and discovering what doesn’t work is part of the process too.
Remember, success doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some thrive in big lecture halls, others prefer smaller classes or more practical settings. What matters is finding the place where you feel inspired to grow. If you’re feeling the pressure, take a breath. The next step doesn’t need to be perfect – it just needs to be yours.