“I am extremely grateful to God for such an accomplishment (Cum Laude); it has always been one of my academic goals and now I know my hard work has paid off. I also hope to continue achieving these accolades in my postgrad studies,” relayed 21-year-old Durban University of Technology graduate, Racquel Sherise Lallie.
The formula-loving lass graduated with her Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Chemical Engineering at the Olive Convention Centre on 20 May 2024.
Speaking of her passion for engineering, she relayed that it was her teachers from high school that had encouraged her to pursue engineering because of her passion for maths and problem solving and they gave her a push in this direction which she is always thankful for,” she said.
She shared that she had done her reading about this field of study, and she knew instantly that this course was perfect for her.
Lallie makes mention that she equates with DUT’s values and principles.
“I associate with the values of honesty and integrity because these values have helped me build better mannerisms and maintain good relationships with colleagues. I also strive to do my very best in whatever I do. I believe in always giving 110% no matter the task,” she added.
However, as a student she had some of the challenges with the biggest challenge being finances.
“I don’t come from a rich background or have anyone to depend on financially, so I have had to find my own means to get funds at times, but this only motivated me more. Another challenge was my lack of computer knowledge when I had started, having never done any computer courses or used a computer in high school, it was a bit stressful trying to learn on my own,” commented Lallie.
Studying further is definitely on the cards for Lallie who is currently doing her postgrad studies and possibly to PhD level. “There is always more to learn, and I want to learn as much as I can while also making meaningful contributions in my field,” she said.
Currently, Lallie is working as a part-time tutor at DUT, assisting the lecturer with marking scripts, assisting students with report writing and presentations.
In terms of her career path, Lallie wants to stay in research and academia while also doing lecturing. “I enjoy imparting knowledge on to others and I hope to do so in the foreseeable future,” she replied.
She also parts her advice to future DUT students, conveying that the journey is going to be tough.
“There’s going to be hurdle after hurdle and at times you may want to give up, but you must thrive in adversity, it is not impossible, have faith, trust in God and be consistent. It will all be worth it at the end,” she professed.
Pictured: Racquel Sherise Lallie
Photography: Mnqobi Ngobese
Waheeda Peters
