Eunice High School. Lee-Anne Usher is a Grade 10 learner, from Eunice High School. She was nominated together with other Top Academic achievers from Eunice and across South Africa to join the Academic Achievers tour for 2022.

Schools That Rock invited Lee-Anne to tell us more about the tour.

“You had to be amongst the top achievers of your own school. Personally, we had to be in the top 20 at Eunice High School to receive an invatation to the tour. Eunice High School nominated their top 20 learners from grade 8 to grade 11 in 2021 to receive an invitation. Although we were nominated by Eunice High School, each learner was responsible for their own fare.

I was fortunate to get an opportunity to learn more about the American traditions, culture, history and problems that they currently face.

Yes, I made friends with pupils all over South Africa and in some cases I even built everlasting friendships. I would encourage learners to also strive to go on this tour. It is a great experience where you can connect with like-minded people and build life-long friendships. You get the chance to explore some of the most well known cities and tourist attractions. It widened my horizons and increased my general knowledge significantly. This was a wonderful experience where I made a lot of memories that I would not trade for anything in the world.

Study in USA

Considering to study in America after matric? I would like to pursue a career in entrepreneurship. At the moment I intend studying in South Africa but if I should decide later to study in America, Princeton University New Jersey will definitely be my first choice.

More opportunities offered to the young people in America than in South Africa? Yes, there are more job opportunities.

The part of America I like most, is New Jersey. It impressed me the most. An Afrikaans saying “klein dorpie gevoel” describes it best. It is safe and spacious with small cafes surrounded by a friendly community.

Highlights? There were so many highlights and therefore it is difficult to only choose one. Visiting the 9/11 memorial, JF Kennedy museum and Arlington National Cemetery were some of the highlights. Watching the Blue Man group perform as well as the musical Wicked was such a privilege. Going on a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and spending time there. Seeing time square for the first time and spending time at Universal Studios as well as Disney World will forever be treasured.”