By: Kate Bishop
Andrew Randles, otherwise known as Hake, will always be known as the party animal as he is frequently at Union, rat and Friars, but what you see is not what you get. Sprawled out like a lion on his towel, Andrew is the epitome of the perfect Rhodes student. As a first year student he has managed to beat the infamous first year spread by playing rugby, has earned a few firsts for his exams and yet still finds the time to go out at least three times a week. There is much to learn from this young man. “A hero in my eyes is someone that stands up for what they believe in, and cares for the people they love.” Andrew commented. Andrew has lived up to his definition of a hero this year by simply being himself and not conforming. He cannot be missed; he stands out from the crowd as he towers over most people, has the infamous 80’s mullet and has the most beautiful blue eyes which engage with yours when he speaks.
Hilton College bred, Andrew came to Rhodes hoping to grow as a person and experience life in every possible way. “Rhodes has such a relaxed atmosphere and allows you to spread your wings in all directions” Andrew commented, his voice full of warmth and passion. Coming from a privileged background, Andrew feels that Rhodes is much better in terms of being able to express yourself and loves the freedom from the control that had dominated his life in boarding school. A member of Jan Smuts house, Andrew found it intimidating at first; however, now considers it home. He has made lifelong friends in the few months that he has been here and made an impact on many people’s lives, including best friend Richard Matthews said who commented, “Andrew has such strong moral values, and is the most selfless person I know, he will do anything for his friends.” Andrew has come to Rhodes and embraced the many opportunities that have presented themselves to him, including mastering the art of downing a bomb or two.
When Andrew first came to Rhodes, like all other first years, he was overwhelmed by the work and social pressures that are all part of the varsity package, Rhodes is a completely new world to the one he was used to. “Finding a balance in my life was difficult at first, but after a few trial and errors that included getting 0 for an English essay because it was too late; I realised that you have to make sure that you know what’s going on in all your subjects. The moment you not sure what’s happening, that’s when you should skip the ten Rand draft and do some work.” As Andrew spoke he revealed a tattoo of an “R” under his right arm, this resembles the family name; he looks at his body as a canvas for the things he truly values in life. Andrew dreams of one day travelling through Africa, experiencing the sticky heat of Nigeria and the local bars in Benin. Andrew is not afraid to take chances and make life altering decisions, through this; he has discovered who he is. “Andrew has finally found himself, and now he is just being who he is you can either accept him or not.” Raymond France commented.
Andrew is a gregarious intense person; he has balanced his life at Rhodes by enjoying everything in his moderation, respecting his friends and simply appreciating student life. Andrew sees a hero as someone who stands up for what they believe in, and cares for the people he loves, this year, through his courage, leadership and hard work he has proven himself worthy of being a hero.
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