“I teach and try to inspire young minds to choose a career in science. It is only when you can explain something to someone else in the simplest of ways that you fully grasp a concept!" – Zandri le Grange, BSc-degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (2012) and Postgraduate Diploma in Education (2013), and a member of the Student Representative Council (SRC)
Zandri le Grange graduated from Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 in 2012 with a BSc-degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. She subsequently completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at SU in 2013. Zandri works at Duineveld High School in Upington, where she is a Life Sciences and Mathematics teacher.
“I teach and try to inspire young minds to choose a career in science. It is only when you can explain something to someone else in the simplest of ways that you fully grasp a concept!" says Zandri.
“Besides the administrative and extra-curricular activities involved in teaching, my main objective is to find intriguing ways to teach science. I love hands-on science and explaining a topic by involving the learners in their learning process. Sometimes I work alone and sometimes in a team, it all depends on the topic that I teach. I also try to incorporate different subjects into science, but the South African curriculum makes it harder than in some other countries."
Before her current position, Zandri gained experience teaching a variety of subjects, including a position teaching Creative Design and Innovation in Abu Dhabi where she found her Biotechnology background gave her an edge. “I don't think everyone fully comprehends the opportunities there are in the teaching profession: there are companies searching for teachers with a BSc-degree."
Zandri has found that the in-depth knowledge she gained during her BSc studies helps her to guide her learners towards a better understanding of science. Taking mathematics and physics in addition to her biotechnology subjects means she is an all-rounder when it comes to teaching. She was also involved in student leadership and found it a meaningful experience.
“During my time at Stellenbosch, I was on the Student Representative Council, as well as the Academic Affairs Council – this gave me the opportunity to learn vital life lessons. I also got to meet a lot of people that had an influence on my career choice," she adds. “During your studies, it is important to gain as much knowledge as you can about science. Also, you must remember that science never stands alone, it is integrated into so many walks of life. Explore that and your learners will forever be intrigued!"
This BSc-alumnus profile is part of the Faculty of Science's #100CareersinScience project. E-mail us at science@sun.ac.za if you want to share your career journey with current students.
Photo: Zandri le Grange. Photo supplied?
