Summa cum laude BSc Biological Sciences graduate, Ms Tridhara Ramnaraj wanted to stay close to her home and study at UKZN’s Pietermaritzburg campus. Initially hoping to branch off into Medicine, as her degree progressed, she decided to remain within the biological sciences owing to the rich research opportunities offered by the University.
Ramnaraj enjoyed the variety of modules covered during her studies, including learning about plant families and species – thus instilling a great appreciation of plants and delving into the field of genetics and Recombinant DNA (DNA that has been created in a laboratory by combining two or more fragments from different sources).
‘This degree offered a very broad view of biology, covering zoology, botany and genetics,’ she explained. Ramnaraj also enjoyed the annual fieldtrips, including visits to the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) situated at uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve outside Howick, the African Raptor Centre at Cato Ridge and uShaka Marine World in Durban.
‘As a primary school learner, I particularly enjoyed science and was passionate about marine biology and learning about marine life, especially sharks,’ said Ramnaraj. ‘My school principal motivated me to participate in Science Olympiads, which I did well in.
‘I believe every student has a subject or field that they resonate with – biology is mine!’
Ramnaraj is currently enrolled for a BSc Honours in Biological Sciences, and will be working on key elements causing bacteria in chronic gastrointestinal disorders, and medicinal plants. She hopes to follow a career in the biotechnology field, or alternatively, complete her master’s degree.
‘Ultimately I would like to work in a field closely linked to medical science,’ she said.
Ramnaraj thanked her parents and sisters: ‘They have supported me through all the difficult times. My triplet sister, who completed her BSc in Biological Sciences before me, provided guidance and motivation – she was my role model.
‘I also have my friends to thank, without whom I would not have achieved as I did,’ she said. ‘They have always kept me motivated and helped in every way possible.’
Influenced by her studies, Ramnaraj has become a keen gardener and loves transplanting plants in her spare time.
She offered some sage advice for current undergraduate Biology students: ‘Hard work always pays off. A genius is created through mastering concepts, not by just being smart,’ she said. ‘Being dedicated to attending every lecture and putting in the extra effort even when not needed, makes all the difference!’
Words: Sally Frost
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
