Martha Talata, a second-year Biochemistry student, exemplifies multitasking and the pursuit of excellence. During her long vacation, she expanded her horizons by interning at the Water Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-WRI) and enrolling in an IT class.

Talata recalls her first experience in a CSIR lab, noting the difference from her university classes.

"Due to the large numbers, we have in school, not everybody can take part in the practicals during lab sessions, but over there, we are few, and so everybody has the opportunity to partake in the practicals," Talata shared.

Unexpectedly, her internship involved more than lab work. Talata found herself learning Photoshop, particularly enjoying flyer design.

"I learnt how to not write everything in words but to add graphics to illustrate what you are working on. The graphics included graphs," she explained.

This newfound interest led her to explore software development and digital marketing through enrolment in an IT course. "These are fields that are initially unfamiliar to me, but I got along with them," she said.

Though challenging, Talata's determination proved fruitful. The experience taught her the importance of acquiring knowledge beyond her Biochemistry program.

"You might not only work or branch into areas in your programme, and so there is the need to explore other areas too," she remarked.

The skills and exposure gained during her vacation have already proven beneficial. With current coursework on Excel and PowerPoint, Talata finds herself ahead of her peers.