Paul Roos Gymnasium. It is a priviledge for Schools That Rock to ask a few questions to Daniel Dillon, Deputy Headboy 2022 from Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch.
Daniel, how do you see your role as deputy headboy of Paul Roos Gymnasium?
First and foremost, my role as Deputy Headboy is defined purely by leadership. In PRG, it is my responsibility to live out the values of the school and advocate for them on a daily basis. Not only in the classroom and on the school grounds, but in my own personal life. In the context of the student council, it is mine and Josua’s role to lead our team alongside our Head Boy, Roché Meyer.
How did the past four years at Paul Roos prepare you for your role as Deputy Headboy?
We have been extremely privileged throughout our four years at Paul Roos to have had some truly unique and outstanding head boys such as our head boy when we were in grade 8, Ivann van der Merwe (2018). The way that Ivann carried himself, led his own life and inspired those around him form the basis of what I aspire to in a leadership role. Throughout my four years in the maroon machine I have had numerous impactful role-models who have prepared me for life, and thereby for this role as deputy leader.
Who do you look to for inspiration and mentoring?
The example set by Ivann van der Merwe in my grade 8 year still inspires me and drives me today. If ever I am in need of motivation or guidance, I simply think back to how he rallied and inspired the entire school. Simultaneously he took a personal interest in so many of our lives.
Which field of study do you intend pursuing after school?
I am considering studying Industrial Engineering at Stellenbosch University. However, regardless of what degree I ultimately decide to enrol in, I intend to take Piano Performance as an extra subject at the conservatory.
Which characteristic of PRG do you feel is most prominent?
The abundance of positively impactful role-models for the boys. Paul Roos is extremely vast in the sense that there truly is a place for everyone. I can confidently say this as someone who is in stark contrast to the stereotypical Afrikaans rugby-playing Paul Rooser! Personally, the leaders that I have had in the music block of Paul Roos have been beyond inspirational and truly life-changing. What defines Paul Roos is these unsung leaders who don’t wear the striped student council blazers, yet still live for Paul Roos and its values. It is the abundance of leaders like these that makes Paul Roos such a unique and special place to be able to develop.
Do you think participation in sport should be made compulsory in schools?
Definitely not. I strongly believe that the life lessons learnt in team sports specifically are priceless, especially in a school like Paul Roos. However, making anything compulsory drains it of its magic. We are more than willing to put in the extra hours and train before school. It all of a sudden becomes less rewarding when you are being forced to do it. I think that participation in team sports should be strongly encouraged, but not made compulsory.
What did you enjoy most during your school career?
Above the gees on the stands, the big brags and even the incredible leadership in Paul Roos, I have loved feeling part of something so much greater than myself. There is something special about forming part of the prestigious, tradition-orientated institution that is Paul Roos.
What are your objectives as Deputy Headboy of your school?
Our goal as a student council is to lead the school along a journey of rediscovering what it truly means to be a Paul Rooser. With the lack of any derby days, big brags or any significant events over the past two years it has been difficult to preserve the intense unity and brotherhood that is so distinctive to our school. Our primary goal is therefore to rediscover what we like to refer to as “Die Gevoel” of being in Paul Roos, and making sure that what has been preserved and cultivated for 155 years, lives on long past our generation.
What motivates you to reach your goals?
I truly love Paul Roos, and the unique experience and opportunities it offers to the boys who attend it. Above all else, it is this that motivates me to do whatever is necessary for the benefit of the Maroon Machine.
Why would you encourage learners to become part of PRG?
Being a Paul Rooser is something that goes far beyond attending this school. It is being part of a brotherhood, it is pride, it is respect and it is gentlemanship. No institution will set you up as well for the rest of your life as Paul Roos and offer you the same experience and array of opportunities. Making the decision to come to Paul Roos has surely been the most influential decision of my life, and I am so grateful that I made it.
What are your future goals/ambitions?
I want to study Piano Performance in Europe following my studies in Stellenbosch. Further than that, who knows! I would love to be able to return to live in Stellenbosch in the future.
Photo supplied
More school news: