The Faculty of Law Class of 2022 walked across the graduation stage to receive their degrees on Monday, 15 May. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, students in this class completed their studies online and in person.  We have chosen to highlight the top three graduates with the highest weighted averages due to their outstanding performance.

Jacobus Hudson is the overall top performer in the LLB Class of 2022. Jacobus has the highest weighted average in the prescribed modules during all four years of the LLB degree programme. Jacobus is also the final-year LLB student with the highest weighted average in all the final-year LLB modules, provided that the student passed all the prescribed modules on the first attempt. He was awarded the Medal of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal for a candidate with outstanding undergraduate academic achievement during all the undergraduate years of study for any first bachelor’s degree in the Faculty of Law on graduation day.

When asked what contributed to his success, Jacobus said: ‘Several factors contributed to my overall academic success at the University of Pretoria. Firstly, a strong work ethic and dedication to my studies played a crucial role. I made sure to prioritise my academic commitments and developed effective study habits, such as time management and goal setting. Additionally, the support and guidance provided by the university Faculty and staff greatly contributed to my success. They created a conducive learning environment, offered valuable resources, and encouraged critical thinking and intellectual growth.’

Jacobus emphasised that his success is owed to his support system. ‘Throughout my academic journey, I have been fortunate to have a strong support system that kept me motivated,’ he said. He states that his family and close friends provided him with unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in his abilities which helped him stay focused during challenging times. Jacobus also acknowledged his inspiration from his mentors and professors, who have shared their knowledge and passion for the subject matter. ‘Their enthusiasm for the field motivated me to strive for excellence and continue learning,’ Jacobus said.

We also asked Jacobus what advice he would give to first-year students who wanted to excel in their studies, and this is what he had to say:

‘My advice to a first-year student pursuing an LLB degree would be: Stay organised—develop effective time management skills, create a study schedule, and prioritise tasks to ensure you stay on top of your coursework. Seek support—don't hesitate to reach out to professors, classmates, and academic support services when you encounter challenges or need clarification. Utilise study groups and engage in discussions to enhance your understanding of complex issues.’

Michelle Morris is the top-performing student with the second highest weighted average. Michelle also received the Private Law Prize for best student in Private International Law 410 and the South African Society for Labour Law Prize for best student in Labour Law 410.

When asked what contributed to her academic success in the Faculty of Law, Michelle said: ‘Balance is key! You cannot just study endlessly. It is important to ensure that you work hard when it is time for working hard, but that when you are not working, you take time to do what makes you happy: go out with friends, participate in a sport, read a book, whatever makes you tick. For me, the habit of taking a break from studying to do some physical exercise of some kind and give my brain a chance to rest was vital to my success.’

Michelle emphasised that her family was a great support system throughout her academic journey and really helped to keep her grounded when things seemed impossible. ‘I am also a horse rider, so my horse riding was critical in providing me with a much-needed break so I could return to my studies with fresh motivation and energy,’ Michelle said when asked what kept her motivated.

When asked what advice she would give first-year students who wanted to succeed in their LLB degree, she said: ‘You are your own person, and everyone is different. Just because something (a particular study method, degree, or gym routine) works for your friend does not mean it will work for you! Figure out who you are and what works for you, and have faith in that.’

Nyeleti Baloyi is a top-performing student with the third-highest average overall. Baloyi received the PPS Prize for best student in Trusts and Estates 410. Nyeleti Baloyi is also a fellow of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation. In 2021, the Office of the Dean recommended that a few students represent UP Law virtually at the LSGL 9th Summer School hosted by NUS. Baloyi was one of the few students who was selected.

When asked what contributed to her overall success in the Faculty of Law, she said: ‘Having a great support system was essential to my success at the University of Pretoria. My family and friends were my rock when the going got tough. My parents, Rhulani and Chriswell, kept me motivated throughout the journey. The never-ending phone calls after semester tests. Sweet treats to keep the energy flowing during test weeks. Reminding me that it is possible and even if I stumble along the way, it’s never the end.’

Nyeleti states that she had one goal since the beginning of her academic journey at the University of Pretoria, and that was to complete her LLB degree Cum Laude. Today, she not only graduated Cum Laude but was amongst the top three students with the highest weighted averages in the UP Law Class of 2022. Nyeleti also stated that there were times when she felt demotivated. ‘If the demotivation was caused by struggling with a module, I often consulted my lecturers, and I mean, I consulted a lot! If it was just burnout, I’d often take a trip home just to unplug and gain back the strength because I would be surrounded by the most supportive people,’ Nyeleti said.

When asked what advice she would give first-year students who wanted to excel in academics,  Nyeleti said: ‘My advice to a first-year LLB student who wants to succeed is that you need to be willing to put in the work. It’s easy to pass, but it’s not as easy to be an exceptional student who not only gets good marks but has a thorough understanding of the work and can engage. There are so many LLB students that it’s easy to fall into the shadows. It’s also very easy to forget your goal when you hear that “50% is a pass, but 51% is a distinction”; unfortunately, it’s not. And having a 51% average can restrict your opportunities. Great marks aren’t everything, but they are one foot in the door. It’s important to hear that in mind.’

UP Law is exceptionally proud of these top three students and the Class of 2022. We wish them all the best with their future careers. In the words of Douglas MacArthur:

‘A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.’

We are incredibly proud of our UP Law graduates.

Please read here how UP Law celebrated its leading minds at the Annual Recognition of Achievement  Function.