Career Guide 2021/2022 - NWU
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Career Guide 2021/2022
Leave
your mark Prof Robert Balfour
Welcome note
#ASLtalent
Welcome to the 2021 Career Guide!
Apply now Career guidance really stems
from school, where you first made
the decision on different subject
remember that it’s an ongoing
developmental process; building
on existing knowledge and
for 2022/2023 SAICA, choices to study. The world of acquiring new skills to meet
SAIPA and CIMA work is changing rapidly and to
be responsive, the NWU aims to
changing workplace dynamics are
essential. Each student or graduate
training contract connect you with opportunities has distinctive qualities, values and
as well as possibilities regarding abilities that, in the end, contrib-
employment. We hope you will find ute to a more diverse, inclusive
the guide useful in preparation for working environment to the
Submit your CV to hr@asl.co.za readiness to make future career benefit of both the institution and
or visit www.asl.co.za/careers choices, thinking about the career community at large.
that is right and best for you.
Whether you are starting with your During your lifetime, you will
university course or are already a probably work for different
graduate, consideration of life after employers or even be the
graduation is important. There are employer. You may also follow a
JOIN THE many exciting opportunities with number of different careers and
careers changing and developing could work in various parts of the
TALENT continually as our world confronts world. Take in what motivates and
new challenges and knowledge is interesting to you; you must also
continues to develop at an increas- know your potential and passion,
We are a solutions-driven team of
ing pace. as you are setting the path that will
professionals, providing service excellence to
ultimately guide your future career.
our valued clients. With a strong work ethic
It is important for the NWU
and a positive “can do” attitude, we build
to engage with students and This Career Guide aims to create
long-term, mutually beneficial relationships,
graduates on employability and opportunity awareness and
constantly raising the bar.
being prepared for workplace introduces you to a variety of
demands. Whatever career you employers in your field of study
choose at this point in your life, who are looking for open-minded,
ii CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 i
Contents
well-qualified people like you, ability services and resources to
aiming to help you find out more facilitate the transition of the NWU
about them in discovering the level students in finding career- and or
of training required in your field of job-related opportunities. As with Prof Robert Balfour Welcome note i
work. They are interested in your all things new, the Career Centre Introduction to the Career Guide 2021/2022 iv
knowledge and skills, but also in office has had concerns pertaining Unit for Open Distance Learning 4
the unique contribution that you to walk-in services and students Student Counselling & Development Mafikeng Campus 8
can make in helping companies to gathering for the Centre’s events. Student Counselling & Development Vaal Triangle Campus 9
be great places to work at. Student Counselling & Development Potchefstroom Campus 12
The office has found a new way of
NWU Alumni Gallery 17
I hope the Career Guide will help connecting with you on the eFundi
Future World of Work
you to start exploring possible site, Career Centre webpage,
Making Business Opportunities Happen 43
careers and choosing one that is Simplicity Career Centre Service
best for you to help you achieve Management portal, and a new How to Budget for Start-Up Success 49
your full potential. Throughout online event platform that will host Introducing Yourself: The Cover Letter 53
COVID19, dedicated Career Centre the NWU virtual career fairs. Your Curriculum Vitae: The Ultimate Marketing Tool 56
staff members are there to assist Curriculum Vitae: Example 59
you; they have embraced a new Curriculum vitae: Checklist 62
way of connecting with you and Prof Robert. J Balfour The Fourth Industrial Revolution 65
offer a wider range of employ- Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching-Learning What Do Employers Want? 74
Qualities of Remarkable Employees 76
Most Sought-After Skills, Competences and Traits 78
Things I wish someone had told me in my first year at university! 79
Attending the Virtual Career Fair 81
Application Tips 85
The Job Search is Just Like Dating: 88
What Makes You Competent? 91
Steps to Informational Interviews 94
Sample Questions: Informational Interviews 96
What is an Informational Interview Anyway? 97
Interview Tips in a Nutshell 102
Tisp for Getting Hired After Varsity 104
Company Listings 108
The Unit for Continuing Education 112
ii CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 iii
Introduction to the
Career Guide
2021/2022
Manager’s Introduction
The NWU Career Centre team is proud to share with you the 13th publi- part of standardising our process, our offerings are spread across all NWU
cation of the NWU Career Guide! This is our continued effort to bring you campuses to be accessed by all NWU students. You are also welcome to like
closer to the realities of the industry and the graduate talent. The informa- our Facebook page in order to gain access to many other opportunities and
tion shared in this guide is useful to assist you with planning your profes- career information that can be of assistance to you. Equally, employers can
sional career as a student. For the employers, the publication promotes access us via our Employer Engagement Consultant, Mr. Hloni Putsoane,
your brand positioning and ensures that you gain access to a wider pool of who will gladly introduce you to many other avenues that can assist you in
potential employees. connecting with your future graduate talent pipeline.
As a result of the Covid19 health crisis and the changes that have been Today we are living in times of change. There has never been any time
brought about by this epidemic, it is important for students to know like this, a time that requires us to unlearn, relearn and embrace a culture
and understand industry practices and the kind of career opportunities of lifelong learning and continued engagement with varying avenues of
available during this time as well as in the future. Industry employers must learning and development. This is the time that information, knowledge,
also gain access to quality graduate talent that can thrive during these career opportunities and branding become more important than ever
changing times. In light of this, we hope that this publication will assist both before to achieve success in business and in your individual career progres-
employers and NWU graduate students to gain insight in some of the talent sion.
pipeline changes, and how best to remodel, reposition and compete, both
as an employer and a potential employee. This publication contributes to the branding of your company as an
employer and student graduates matching their talents with the right
This is not the only resource offered by the department; there are many opportunities. We therefore encourage students to read articles contained
more that can be utilised by both employers and NWU students. We are in this publication and inform themselves of any available opportunity. The
active, inter alia, on our Facebook page; the Career Centre web page; online employers have chosen the NWU publication to share their company infor-
CV training on our eFundi page; Work Readiness seminars; the CareerZone mation and contacts, including career and job opportunities. We hope that
portal; and the annual virtual career fair. Please keep in touch with us, this edition will take you closer to your opportunity as a graduate, an intern
because we do not want you to be left behind in your journey to success. or a fulltime employee. I am sure that the information contained in this pub-
Our contact details are included in this publication, so please reach out to lication will further assist you to advance your professional career path and
any of our staff members, who will be ready to assist you at any time. As shape your immediate society as well as the society at large.
iv CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 1
I want to express my thanks to all who continue to make this publication
possible. As a team, we remain committed to assist the NWU students and
graduates in finding their next destination in their professional careers. To
the employers, we see you as our partner in building the talent of the future
that can assist you as an employer.
I especially want to thank Ms Hope Abrahams, who is leading the coordi-
nation efforts towards the publication of the Career Guide, and Ms Zarista
Verster from Graphikos for the design and layout of the publication.
On behalf of the NWU,
we thank you,
rea leboga,
baie dankie!
NWU Career Centre
Thoriso Ezra Maseng advert
Manager: NWU Career Centre
2 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 3
Unit for Open
Distance Learning students applying for these qualifications may be holding down full-time
careers as well.
I would therefore like to assure prospective postgraduate students that are
tenacious about furthering their studies, to consider one of the UODL's post-
graduate qualifications for not only an enriching experience, but a cost-ef-
fective one as well.
Acting Director’s Message
A noted trend is that when our undergraduates continue to complete
The Unit for Open Distance Learning (UODL) has recently launched its first
their postgraduate studies through distance education, they not only gain
quarterly online newsletter. Knowing that people are our greatest assets, we
advanced knowledge and capabilities which is highly favoured but also
dedicate our next issue to you. We celebrate Life, our people, the SRC, all our
increase their chances of securing employment and improving their earning
stakeholders, our students, our challenges and our journey. Visit our website
potential.
frequently - it will make for an interesting read!
Our team at the UODL live by our brand value which is being committed and
A campaign has been launched in June 2021 which is aimed at attracting first
geared to focus on improving overall service and support to all stakeholders
year students as well as students that have completed their undergraduate
and to inspire the nation through our students, instilling visions of hope and
qualifications to further their studies at the UODL.
a deep set of values, to pave the way for a better future for all.
Having been a student myself, I understand the various challenges that you
I look forward to welcoming you as a UODL student at the North-West Uni-
may be faced with, the leading being concerned about making the right
versity.
decisions when it comes to your studies which directly impacts your career
path. The COVID-19 pandemic has not made this dilemma any easier as
many students were forced to postpone their study plans. Dr Joany Fransman
Acting Director of UODL
At UODL, we work hard to maintain our competitive advantage, strive to
retain our students and we challenge ourselves in attaining service excel-
lence for our current and prospective graduates. We have placed our
students needs at the forefront of all that we do. UODL has numerous
initiatives to keep our students engaged and satisfied. Testimonials from
our students that have embarked on their postgraduate journey with UODL
have been encouraging and heart-warming. We see so many students from
previously disadvantaged backgrounds claiming their place in the world and
fulfilling their purpose.
The UODL at the North-West University is a worthwhile option to consider as
you can continue studying from the comfort of your home and since lecture
sessions are available online, you are assured of uninterrupted teaching and
learning. If you are currently completing your undergraduate qualification or
exploring different postgraduate qualifications, the UODL offers Postgradu-
ate Diplomas in Education, Management and Law. These are well structured
programmes, designed with the 'distance mode of delivery' in mind and that
4 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 5
Campus Liaison Officers Lehlohonolo Putsoane
Employer Engagement Consultant
Building F25
Mphinyana Vacant Tshepiso Mothupi 018 285 2498
Nemasitoni hloni.putsoane@nwu.ac.za
Campus Liaison Officer Campus Liaison Officer Campus Liaison Officer
Mafikeng Campus Potchefstroom Vaal Triangle Campus
Building ADC Campus Building 13, SL333 Office hours
Office 139 Building F25 016 910 3345
Monday – Friday: 8:00 – 16:30
018 389 2935 018 299 4409 tshepiso.mothupi@
(The office will be closed between 13:00 – 14:00).
mphinyana.nemasitoni@ nwu.ac.za
nwu.ac.za
For more information visit our website:
http://services.nwu.ac.za/career-centre
The team
Thoriso Maseng Hope Abrahams
Manager: Career Centre Information Officer
Building F25 Building F25
018 299 2058 018 299 2020
thoriso.maseng@nwu.ac.za hope.abrahams@nwu.ac.za
Dr Peet Roos Avis Erens
Career Consultant Administrative Assistant
Building F25 Building F25
018 299 2097 018 299 2059
peet.roos@nwu.ac.za 22647686@nwu.ac.za
6 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 7
Student Counselling & Development Student Counselling & Development
Mafikeng Campus Vaal Triangle Campus
Student Counselling & Development is the ultimate educational function. What is Peer Helping?
Real student development aims at producing graduates with quality. Student
Counselling & Development is the means to an end. SCD offers support to The CH@S peer helpers is a ground level with social, academic
students at all levels. campus society under the guard- and psychological challenges that
ianship of SCD. These are students they might experience. They will
• Do you need study skills? who were trained to render basic then make referrals to profession-
The following • Are you limited by disabil- support to their fellow students als on campus where need be.
services are provided ity to access teaching and and are represented across
Peer helpers render on-going peer
learning? residences and courses at the
• Supplemental Instruction (SI) – out • Are you in first year and NWU Vaal Campus. Their aim is to support throughout the year and
of class peer tutoring struggling to read and com- make sure students are helped on also assist with all projects of SCD.
• Research Support prehend what you read?
• Peer Mentoring • Do you have problems with
• Reading Laboratory your academic writing?
• Writing Centre (assignments / research)
CH@s
• Study Skills • Do you have problems with Connecting Helpers and The Students
• Disability Rights Unit (DRU): computing? YOU, ME…ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES!
offering services to students with • Do you have problems
disability NWU Vaal Student Counselling and Development
with writing your research https://www.facebook.com/NWU-Vaal-Student-Counselling-and-Develop-
• Examination and Test taking proposal?
ment-680243645399073/
strategies Ch@s NWU VAAL
• Do you sometimes feel frus- https://www.facebook.com/Chs-NWU-VAAL-264489956911361/
• eFundi trated with your studies and For professional guidance and assistance with any personal problem or
wonder how other students developmental area come to our offices and book an appointment.
Enquiries: made it to graduation?
Permanent Staff
Academic Development Centre • Do you need small peer
Manager: Mr George Temane
(ADC) NWU, Mafikeng Campus support groups to improve Industrial Psychologist: Zinhle Kunene
Building A3 Block D your academic performance Social Worker: Ms Maggie Matsaneng
Tel: 018 389 2058 in a module? Secretary: Babita Govender
Fax: 018 389 2430 If your answer to the above Building 13, SL 331
Email: questions is “YES”, visit ADC 016 910 3195
Mittah.Magodielo@nwu.ac.za / in the Student Academic
16461088@nwu.ac.za Development Section.
8 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 9
Academic Development Centre: Mafikeng Campus Student Counselling & Development: Vaal Triangle Campus
What can the Social Worker help you with?
What is student counselling and development? • Social Work Services
Student Counselling and Development renders professional services to • Meal-a-Day and
students by professional members of staff qualified in psychology, coun- • Family support
selling, nursing, social work and psychometry. Our aim is reflected in our
motto: “OPTIMIZING YOU!” What is THUSO?
Thuso is a 24hr Crisis Centre, which resides under SCD at the NWU Vaal
What services do we offer? Campus. Staff members are responsible for the management of THUSO
• Individual psychotherapy and counselling Crisis Centre.
• Life skills and personal development
• Social Support Services, including HIV/Aids Do you feel your life is not worthwhile?
• Poverty alleviation programs
• Psychometric assessments for both prospective and current students Thuso’s Crisis Help Line:
• Career guidance and counselling
• Enhancing the “Student Life Experience“, adjustment to campus life, and 082-815-9781
general development for first-time entrants
• Support for students with disabilities
• Thuso 24hrs Crisis Centre What is the Disability Rights Unit (DRU)?
What services does the Career Counselling offer? The Disability Rights Unit in Student Counselling and Development plays
an advocacy and support role. All students with physical and psycho-logical
• Course related information
challenges are invited to come and talk to us. We offer disability related
• Career guidance
support and accessibility assistance to all implied students.
• Enhancing the “Final Year Experience“
• Psychometric assessments
What can the HIV Coordinator do for you?
• Course change counselling
• HIV/AIDS counselling
• Addressing stigma of HIV
• Substance abuse awareness
• Sexual, emotional, financial and physical abuse awareness
• LGBTIA+ and gender base violence
• Male and female empowerment
10 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 11
Student Counselling & Development
booking and predetermined testing • Neuro-Cognitive Disorder.
Potchefstroom Campus dates (selection tests). If you are
unsure about your career-path,
• Other: Specify____________.
Contact the DRU for more infor-
you can book an appointment on mation: 018 299 4431.
eFundi or call us at 018 299 2893.
Student counselling and Services are offered in
development (SCD) two (2) buildings: • Assessment for Course and 1.4 Psychotherapeutic
Do you experience Career Guidance and Changes and Counselling Services
• emotional or personal problems 1. Student Counselling and (for NWU students). Therapeutic and counselling
• problems with your course/ Development – Building F18 • Grades 10–12: Career Counsel- services are offered by registered
choice of profession ling and Guidance. psychologists and counsellors
SCD focuses on Academic/Course/
• difficulties in adapting • Grade 9: Subject Choices. to promote the psychological
Degree support and offers the
• relationship problems following services: wellbeing of the students to assist
• learning problems 3. Disability Rights Unit
them with the successful comple-
• anxiety problems or The Disability Rights Unit (DRU) tion of their studies, and for them
• phase of life problems? 1.1 Career and course
aims to help students registered to experience optimal student life.
counselling
Or do you need help with: with them to gain equal access to
• extended writing time Help students to make respon- educational opportunities at the 1.5 Concessions and extended
• time management sible career and course choices NWU so they can participate freely writing time
• study methods with the aid of psychometric tests. and actively in all facets of univer-
• stress management Students may also be assisted with sity life: “If we are unable to help Visit our website for more informa-
• life skills or the revising of their curricula and you, we will find someone who tion or call 018 299 2893.
• conflict management career choices if they encounter can!”. All students with physical
problems during the course of and psychological challenges are 1.6 Leadership, Life Skills
... THEN THE STUDENT COUNSEL- their studies. invited to come and talk to us. We and Personal Development &
LING AND DEVELOPMENT (SCD) IS offer disability support to all NWU Workshops
YOUR ANSWER! students. We support students
1.2 Psychometric Evaluations Students can visit SCD for leader-
– Subject Choices, Career with the following disabilities:
SCD has a wide range of psycholog- ship development, mentoring and
Choices, Career Changes & coaching, life skills development
ical services to help students grow • Visual Disability.
Selection Tests or personal development. SCD
and develop optimally in academic, • Physical Disability (Permanent).
emotional, and social areas. These Comprehensive psychometric • Hearing Disability (Temporary). also has various preventative and
services are provided free of cost testing and career-path guidance • Speech Disability. developmental workshops that are
to students and include a 24-hr services are freely available to • Learning Disability. presented for the purpose of devel-
emotional crisis intervention students and members of the • Psychiatric Conditions. oping students into mature and
service offered by the “Thuso1777” public (fee is charged). Some of • Specific Medical Conditions. responsible members of society.
centre. the services available require prior • Neuro-Developmental Disorder.
12 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 13
Student Counselling & Development: Potchefstroom Campus2.Thuso1777 – Building Counselling and Support & Peer 2.5 Residence Peer-helpers
Helper Programme: Office hours &
F18 Peer-helpers is a system in which Enquiries:
Thuso1777 focuses on Emotional/ • Students Advocating Leadership students in the residence context
Thuso1777:
Psychological support and offer the & Transformation (SALT) receive peer-helper training in
Monday to Friday: 8h00 – 16h30
following services: order to guide students with
What can the HIV Coordinator do (018 299 1777)
for you? interpersonal problems. The main
(Building E14)
2.1 Office of the Social Worker task of the peer-helpers is to give
• HIV/AIDS counselling. support to students and to refer
SCD:
Delivers the following services: • Addressing stigma of HIV. them to the appropriate support
Monday to Friday: 8h00 – 16h30
• Substance abuse programs and services. Additionally, their task is
• Counselling and support to (018 299 2893)
support. to launch and coordinate psy-
students in terms of psycho-so- (Building F18)
• Addressing sexuality issues. cho-educational and awareness
cial and economic problems.
• Female empowerment. campaigns in residences. The
• Crisis intervention and trauma Email:
• Male empowerment. peer-helpers are not counsellors
debriefing. SCDpotch@nwu.ac.za
or psychologists, rather facilitators
• Liaison with resources in the 2.3 Psychotherapeutic and of emotional wellbeing. They are
community. Join our Facebook Page: NWU
Counselling Services under the strict supervision of a
• Planning and implementing Student Counselling and Develop-
registered psychologist who also
developmental-orientated pro- Therapeutic and counselling ment (https://www.facebook.com/
coordinate the system. Ask your
grammes. services are offered by registered groups/NWUSCD)
House Committee Member for
psychologists, counsellors and
more information about the
2.2 HIV Testing and Counsel- student psychologists to promote Join our Instagram Page: NWU_
peer-helpers.
ling Services (HTS) the psychological wellbeing of SCD (https://www.instagram.com/
students, assist them with the nwu_scd/)
HIV unit related awareness and
successful completion of their
education programmes:
studies, and to ensure an optimal Do you feel your life Book an appointment on
eFundi: http://scd-nwu-ac-za.web.
experience of student life. Services
• First Things First and TB
awareness campaign. include individual and group psy- is not worthwhile? nwu.ac.za
• STI and Condom week. chotherapy, counselling, and group
debriefing.
Thuso1777 Visit our website: http://services.
• World TB day.
• World vaccine day.
Crisis Help Line: nwu.ac.za/student-counsel-
• World AIDS day. 2.4 Crisis Intervention 018 299 1777 ling-and-development
• LGBTIQ+.
• Health and wellness for students. Thuso1777 has a 24-hr crisis line
• New Employee Orientation; for emotional support:
Substance abuse; PEP; PreP. 018 299 1777.
14 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 15NWU Alumni
Ready to go Gallery
where no BOITUMELO MOGOHU
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Researcher
Where do you work?
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16 CAREER GUIDE
A division2021/2022
of FirstRand Bank Limited. An Authorised Financial Services and Credit Provider (NCRCP20). CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 17What would you say is the What key competencies do you
most important thing to do use in your workplace every Do you face any challenges at met comrades with very interesting
when going for an interview? day? work and how do you handle characters. Above all, embracing
I normally research that company Being young professionals, we them? our diversity stood out for me.
and the possible panellists; it is of need to demonstrate professional Any workplace has challenges but
the utmost importance to prepare conduct at all times. Among other fortunately, I have a life coach, Would you have done anything
for the interview. One of the other competencies, I would highlight Leonard Mashao, who assists me differently?
important things to do during the the following ones that are most in obtaining the ability to mitigate Yes, I still believe we could have
whole interview is to be oneself important for me: all challenges in my life, including done so much more to ensure
and to always tell the truth. those I confront at the workplace that other students don’t have to
• Research writing/reporting and outside where I serve. I drop out; some of them are still
• Critical thinking remember that when I met him, I
Was it difficult to adapt from not able to finish today due to
• Team leadership had a lot of stress and pressure at
being a student to being a financial exclusion. I have always
○ customer relations manage- work. In a way, I was losing focus had the idea that if we, as alumni,
young professional?
ment and was not planning my daily could contribute R150 for each
No, it was not difficult; being in
○ organisational communication work, which means that I was not student facing academic exclusion
the SRC was already an intern-
○ risk assessment in charge of my life. Together, and there would be about 20 000
ship in which I was responsible
for engaging with the outside we developed an empowering alumni involved, the amount could
What do you enjoy most about vision board for me, starting to
community and different stake- make an impact in this regard.
your job? introduce new habits and focusing
holders, so I regarded it as a job - I
Gaining knowledge and learning on important matters. Since then,
interacted with almost everyone, What advice would you give
new skills. The nature of my work my routine is under control. I
including possible employers. This to students entering the job
presents me with the opportu- manage work-related stress and
exposure worked in my favour, and market?
nity to learn and to process new am still able to serve outside, but
being a calm person and able to Remember, first things first. Be
information daily. For instance, I have taken charge of my life and
manage stress was an advantage. ready to work and show up, no
we are responsible for conduct- limit unplanned events. I consider
For instance, although I was an matter what, because this is the
ing pre-oversight data collec- myself more solution-orientated at
Academic officer, students came most important thing that gives
tions, prepare reports, perform work, which saves a lot of time.
to me with many other problems, you power. We are all emotional
budget analysis, scrutinise annual
sometimes even outside my beings and therefore, we are not
reports against strategic plans,
office, believing that I could help. What did you enjoy the most always in a good mood and ready
and prepare a management
Members of the Student Council about your time at the NWU? to go to work, but do yourselves a
performance plan. This kind of
were thus forced to build rela- Being called “Leadership” (I am favour by showing up anyway. You
opportunity gives me a holistic
tionships with other stakeholders joking)! I enjoyed meeting and must also have good standards
picture of what is happening in the
outside, which demanded from us making new friends; I have also such as not telling lies or stealing
province, which means my learning
to lobby for support. This process
continues.
required from us to be solution-ori-
entated and being professional.
18 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 19DENZIL MARIO JONAS
time from your employer (e.g., entry-market jobs, as the oppor-
telling people you are sick when tunities prepared me and helped Financial Intern
you’re not). This shows a lack of me in my development as a young
Where do you work?
character. It’s thus important for professional. This experience,
I work at the Emthanjeni Local
us to remind ourselves of our again, helped me to be appointed
Municipality.
standards every morning while to other boards and university/
taking a shower. college councils. Furthermore, I
have a business community where When did you graduate?
I serve and in this journey, I have I graduated at the NWU-Potchefst- What would you say is the
What are some of the positive
come to realise that I find it very room Campus. most important thing to do
personal attributes that you
have gained from the NWU easy to rely on and work with many when going for an interview?
young professionals from my NWU. What qualifications do you Always be well prepared, be honest
during your academic years?
I guess the time we spent together have? and do not create a perception of
My NWU presented me with many
here makes it very easy to trust and BCom Financial Accountancy & yourself that is not really you.
opportunities to grow outside
the teaching and learning space. I rely on each other. PGCE
was part of the Commerce Faculty Was it difficult to adapt from
Board during my first year and After completing your studies, being a student to being a
later, I was in the Student Repre- how many interviews were young professional?
sentative Council (SRC). I consider you invited to before receiving The adaption from student life to
these roles as internships or a job offer? young professional is very chal-
I was invited to two interviews at lenging to me, having to work long
two different municipalities. hours every day from 7:30 to 16:30
with only a 45 minute break for
lunch. Waking up at 6:00 every day
What was your first interview is still a struggle and I am con-
like? stantly tired.
The first interview was really tough.
Although I had prepared myself
very well beforehand, I didn’t know What key competencies do you
answers to half of the questions use in your workplace every
that they asked. I haven’t felt so day?
stupid in my whole life and just • Communication skills (verbal and
wanted the interview to end so that written)
it could be over and done with. I • Being observant and vigilant at
used that experience as a learning all times
tool to prepare for the second one. • Integrity and professionalism
• Determination
20 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 21What do you enjoy most about only applicable to certain people. I What advice would you give What are some of the positive
your job? also have an issue with the level of to students entering the job personal attributes that you
I enjoy most to finally do what I’ve ethical and professional behaviour market? have gained from the NWU
been dreaming of since childhood, of some people in my department. Be positive at all times, because not during your academic years?
namely working at my own pace everything is going to go your way. Some of the attributes are leader-
independently as well as part of a Be ready for change, be vigilant ship skills, communication skills,
What did you enjoy the most and just keep in mind why you are computer literacy, and conflict
team at times. I also enjoy working about your time at the NWU?
very closely to the CFO on a daily doing what you are doing. handling.
I learnt so much over the years
basis and feeling appreciated by and am now using it in my working
everyone in the finance depart- environment. I enjoyed student life
ment. I can raise queries without in general; just being a student is MARELIE BOTHA
feeling like a newbie or a nobody. what I loved most about the NWU,
being around my peers and just Psychometrist
Do you face any challenges at seeing how the change between (Co-founder at Inpsyght)
work and how do you handle childhood and adulthood takes
them? place; exploring the world from Where do you work?
Like in any work place, conflict other people’s perspectives and I work at Inpsyght: www.inpsyght-
between colleagues takes place on realising that there’s no right or consulting.co.za
a daily basis. I choose to address wrong way of doing things, just
positions, related to my field of
the issue on hand immediately, a different way; and living in the When did you graduate? study, on LinkedIn. At the time, I
say my say and also listen to what same hostel as others who come I graduated in 2018 and obtained was a full-time first-year master’s
the other party has to say. I am a from different backgrounds, but my honours degree in 2019. I am student. Apart from LinkedIn, I
very open person, so I prefer to being able to form a tight broth- currently enrolled for my master’s applied for an Industrial Psychol-
speak up whenever I don’t agree erhood regardless of our racial, degree and expect to complete the ogy internship programme at
with something or someone. After economic and background differ- degree in 2021 and graduate in about 10 other companies.
I have said what I wanted to say, I ences. 2022.
stand by what I have said and take
I had two online video inter-
full responsibility for it. Would you have done anything After completing your studies, views and continuously received
differently? how many interviews were feedback on my lack of experience
One of the biggest challenges that If I had the chance to relive my you invited to before receiving and other socio-economic factors
I face is consistency in the work student life, I would definitely a job offer? that had an impact on the availabil-
environment, because it seems as go out more and be more free While working in part-time ity of internships in my field. I’ve
if policies were implemented that is spirited. positions as a psychometrist intern, always been involved in networking
I applied for over (what feels like) and job shadowed as a student.
a hundred full-time and part-time This enabled me to learn from
22 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 23What key competencies do you with different professionals and
those who have started their own Was it difficult to adapt from use in your workplace every learning from them and their
practices and were willing to share being a student to being a day? work. However, what keeps my
their insight on the challenges, young professional? These you can google as well. routine going on a daily basis is the
advantages, and experiences of Along with the specialist competen- creative work I enjoy when interact-
the processes leading to their The most difficult challenge in cies to carry out the actual work, ing with our clients.
success. I then decided to start my becoming an adult is probably not there are several competencies
own company with my well-experi- only adapting to the workplace, needed to carry out the “behind Do you face any challenges at
enced business partner. From this but also to the gained responsi- the scenes” work: negotiating, work and how do you handle
experience, I have come to learn bility, stepping into a new phase. networking, professional branding, them?
that opportunities do not always When looking specifically at the continuous learning and, most I face challenges constantly. I
appear, even when you seek them. workplace, it would really depend important of them all, having a think everyone can agree that the
It is up to you to create them. upon one’s unique personality in high level of self-awareness in perfect week does not exist. As a
adapting to a new environment. every element of the position. For young professional, I would say
When I think about my adaptation, the work field itself, the key compe- that in the beginning, the chal-
What would you say is the
I would not say I am a routine-ori- tencies are to know the limitations lenges were learning to manage
most important thing to do
entated person, but I had to adapt in your knowledge, but to carry the boundaries, learning your devel-
when going for an interview?
to having a routine. Another factor confidence needed for your clients opment areas continuously and
Basic important principles can
was to learn patterns in workflow. to feel they are in capable and pro- learning to deal with the unknown.
be googled. What is important is
Some days, weeks and/or months fessional hands. It is very important In coping with the challenges, I
to know yourself well enough to
are more hectic than others. It is to strike a balance between the know that I am more group reliant,
realise how you would fit into the
always important to grab opportu- two. so learning from others, asking
position and into the company
culture. Long gone is the time nities in your current situation and for advice and bouncing off ideas
where hard skills (technical skills) not necessarily focus on what is What do you enjoy most about on different people are important
are the most important factor con- still to come. your job? in my learning process. This isn’t
tributing to a successful candidate. I love the work I do and have this always an option, though; most of
Experience and soft skills are the continuous hunger and passion the time, you need to think quickly
factors that make you different for my field that never seem to die. and make correct and quick links
from the person next you with the I love to see people discovering when solving problems.
same qualifications. new things about themselves and
those around them, seeing lights What did you enjoy the most
flashing when they connect their about your time at the NWU?
behaviour with their thoughts and I was very lucky at the NWU, staff
feelings. I enjoy nothing more than wise. I had excellent support from
observing individuals and teams. the university and the lecturers
With the “behind the scenes work”, in my field always went the extra
I really enjoy forming connections
24 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 25mile to help us and inform us of • Know how you fit into your field THATO TSHWARO MEDUPE
opportunities; there were even and know to be patient.
societies in our field to support us • Do you want a fast career or a Ph.D. candidate/student in Chemistry
in our academics. I think in your good career? Don’t choose speed
pre–grad years, you always feel over quality; learn from those
entitled to these privileges and do around you. Where do you work?
not realise that these opportuni- • Know what you want to be I am enrolled at the University of
ties don’t necessarily exist at other known for. Cape Town, Faculty of Science,
universities. When entering the • Anything that is not contributing Department of Chemistry.
honours degree, you begin to see to your reaching your goal is not What would you say is the
the practical side of your studies, a priority but a distraction. When did you graduate? most important thing to do
but at master’s level, my lecturers I graduated in 2017 at the autumn when going for an interview?
really encouraged us to challenge What are some of the positive graduation ceremony. Do extensive research about the
ourselves in practising under personal attributes that you company as well as the working
supervision, which allowed me to have gained from the NWU environment before going for the
What qualifications do you interview. If something is not clear
gain a lot of confidence in my field. during your academic years?
have? to you during the session, ask
The life-long connections I formed I think the most important attribute
• Master of Science (MSc) in questions whenever the oppor-
during my pre-grad years up to with regard to the study field (not
Chemistry, 2017 tunity arises. Normally, this takes
my master’s degree are also very necessarily personally) was my
• BSc (Hons) in Chemistry, 2015 place at the end of the interview.
special. Some of them are friends, preference for the application of
• BSc in Biology – Chemistry, 2014 It may sound like a cliché, but I
but most are colleagues who share theory to the practical work I do.
similar values and work ethics. The NWU’s groundwork is really cannot stress enough the impor-
After completing your studies,
applicable to the field. The insight tance of knowing your worth and
how many interviews were
we gained at master’s level contrib- never settling for less. Be open to
Would you have done anything you invited to before receiving
uted to my preferences in practice, discuss the remuneration of the
differently? a job offer?
because the lecturers encour- job offer and negotiate should the
Yes, I would have taken up IT Before the completion of my
aged us to learn from different initial amount disclosed not meet
modules at pre-grad level, as the studies, I had a telephonic PhD
perspectives and from different your needs.
world of work is changing at a sig- candidacy interview.
experts. You thus get to know what
nificantly fast pace and requires a
suits you, which not only helps Was it difficult to adapt from
basic knowledge of coding in most What was your first interview
with understanding workplace being a student to being a
fields. like?
behaviour, but also general young professional?
people’s behaviour. This shaped It was exciting and
I would not deem the transition
What advice would you give my thoughts and responses to nerve-wracking at the same time.
“difficult” but rather a challenge,
to students entering the job changing environmental factors. simply because of other factors
market? such as the change in environment
• Know yourself very well. and adapting to it. The challenge
26 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 27Would you have done anything knowledge outside your field of
of having to settle into a new knowledge about the ongoing differently? specialty, and strive to be open-
environment can be daunting for battle against cancer is what brings Yes, I would have utilised the minded and versatile.
obvious reasons such as adapting me joy. writing centre services more
to the work ethic, getting used to effectively and taken advantage of What are some of the positive
your work colleagues, and having the career services offered by the personal attributes that you
Do you face any challenges at institution.
responsibilities that you were work and how do you handle have gained from the NWU
perhaps not used to previously. In them? during your academic years?
my field of work, longer working Troubleshooting and optimisation What advice would you give I have gained the following three
hours are expected, which could is an everyday challenge. Admitting to students entering the job attributes:
be equated to the life of a student to myself that I am experiencing market?
sometimes (giving presentations, Every job opportunity or interview • The ability to work in a dynamic
a challenge and being able to
meeting deadlines, granting requires adequate preparation. So, team with people from various
communicate it to my colleagues
applications, and writing scientific ensure you have done sufficient backgrounds and having an
and supervisors to get advice or
publications). research about your prospective inquisitive mind
assistance have become some
employers, what they require from • An ability to think and work inde-
of the key tools to handle any
someone in your position, and pendently
What key competencies do you challenge. Receiving constructive
• The most important ones, which
use in your workplace every criticism, even when I am confident keeping up to date with recent
developments and technologi- are time management, critical
day? in my hypothesis, has been THE
thinking and problem-solving
I need consistency, independence, greatest challenge. However, I have cal advancements in your field.
the ability to separate personal and learnt the hard way to be open to Additionally, always expand your
professional life, and/or work-life receiving ideas, and being criticised
balance each day. The ability to often leads to my personal growth
adapt is of great importance. and broadens my knowledge,
GABRIËL ERWEE
allowing me to change aspects of a
project that I am working on.
Pharmacist
What do you enjoy most about
your job? Where do you work?
The in-vitro cytotoxic studies form What did you enjoy the most I work at the Helen Joseph Hospital.
the basis of the application part of about your time at the NWU?
the study. It is fascinating to be at The orientation and pens-down
the forefront of screening/testing bashes were the highlights of
When did you graduate?
I graduated in 2018. After completing your studies,
new compounds that may perhaps my years at the NWU. During my
be the next clinical drug candidates academic years, encounters with how many interviews were
or assisting in the development my lecturers, class discussions, and What qualifications do you you invited to before receiving
of cancer drug agents. Knowing tutoring introductory chemistry have? a job offer?
that my work will contribute to modules were fun as well. I have a BPharm degree. I was invited to one interview.
28 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 29What was your first interview them?
like? Yes, we have our regular problem
NDIRINE KIM LUFHUGU
Because of all the interviews I had patients, but it is important to SCRUM Master
for positions in NWU structures, it remember that any sick person
was something I was used to. Any feels negative.
interview is still difficult in a new Where do you work?
situation, though. I work at Vodacom.
What did you enjoy the most
about your time at the NWU?
What would you say is the What I enjoyed most was to par- When did you graduate?
most important thing to do ticipate in the many structures, I completed my degree in 2020 What would you say is the
when going for an interview? building an amazing student life. and my degree will therefore be most important thing to do
It is very important to research the conferred on 11 June 2021. when going for an interview?
Make sure you do your research
employer, be well groomed and go Would you have done anything about the position and the
in with confidence. differently? What qualifications do you company. Ensure you align
Yes, I would have tried to experi- have? yourself with the kind of candidate
Was it difficult to adapt from ence as many cultures as possible I have a BSc degree in Information the organisation is looking for.
being a student to being a before entering the outside world. Technology. Remember, always be confident.
young professional?
Yes; the most difficult thing was What advice would you give After completing your studies,
not being so close to my support
Was it difficult to adapt from
to students entering the job how many interviews were being a student to being a
system anymore. market? you invited to before receiving young professional?
I would advise them to have con- a job offer? Yes, it was, because the deadlines
What key competencies do you fidence, because everyone starts I was invited to two interviews. in the workplace are always
use in your workplace every somewhere. Making a mistake is consecutive, whereas in tertiary
day? an opportunity to learn something What was your first interview education, we always had our
Management, administration and new. like? deadlines set far apart. Due to
work ethic It was nerve-wracking, but I Covid-19, it is also quite challeng-
What are some of the positive appreciate the opportunity I had, ing, because everything is done
What do you enjoy most about personal attributes that you because the experience helped virtually, from the induction to
your job? have gained from the NWU me to align myself to the market; the mentoring, so every learning
I enjoy the opportunity to serve the during your academic years? hence, my second interview went process is quite slow.
community. I grew during my years at the NWU exceptionally well.
and gained new attributes of lead-
Do you face any challenges at ership, compassion and the ability
work and how do you handle to adapt to any change.
30 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 31What key competencies do you orientation process promotes unity MONICCA THULISILE BHUDA
use in your workplace every and teamwork, which is a key skill
day? in the corporate world. Junior Lecturer
• Problem solving
• Teamwork Would you have done anything Where do you work?
• Being output orientated differently? I work at the University of Mpuma-
• Agile practices No, I enjoyed every moment of my langa, Mbombela.
life at university. I would love to
What do you enjoy most about
relive my varsity days one more When did you graduate?
your job? questions that could be asked
time, because they went by too I graduated in July 2019 and am
I enjoy working with the different during the interviews.
fast. currently enrolled for my PhD.
teams and promoting teamwork
amongst them, as it is a great work
What advice would you give What qualifications do you What would you say is the
ethic. Leading projects is also quite
to students entering the job have? most important thing to do
an exciting challenge that enhances
market? I have a Bachelor’s as well as a
when going for an interview?
my problem-solving skills.
I would advise them to be open- It is to research possible questions
Master’s degree in Indigenous
minded, eager to learn, and to that will be asked during the
Knowledge Systems (BIKS and
Do you face any challenges at interview. The internet can also
keep a positive attitude in every- MIKS). My PhD in Social Science
work and how do you handle assist with dressing tips and
thing they have to do. with Indigenous Knowledge
them? other necessary things. It is very
Systems is in progress.
Yes, I do face challenges, but I important to wake up early on the
define the problem, divide it into What are some of the positive day of the interview and prepare
smaller pieces and try to remain personal attributes that you After completing your studies, when there is still time.
optimistic at all times. I always have gained from the NWU how many interviews were
consult with my mentor, as I am during your academic years? you invited to before receiving
I have learnt a lot of leadership a job offer? Was it difficult to adapt from
still new in the field.
skills through student leadership, I was invited to four interviews and
being a student to being a
for example time management, was successful in the fourth one.
young professional?
What did you enjoy the most No, I worked in different jobs as a
critical thinking, problem-solving,
about your time at the NWU? student; therefore, I understood
budgeting, managing money and
What I enjoyed the most at the What was your first interview the work environment. As a PhD
accepting constructive criticism.
NWU was the first-year orientation. like? candidate and a lecturer, I am
That was by far the greatest expe- I was nervous and excited at the able to cope with all my work. The
rience for me, because everything same time. Not knowing what to only challenge is the workload
about it was amazing, especially expect, I had to seek advice from and academic pressure that I am
the singing, dancing and partaking the internet and working friends currently experiencing.
in the carnival competition. The about the expected general
32 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 33What key competencies do you management and SRC leaders had PERSEVERANCE MKHONTO
use in your workplace every the best interest of students at
day? heart. They made it a priority for Campus Intern Pastor
I use leadership, coping under students to remain happy and feel
pressure, communication, respon- at home.
Where do you work?
sibility, and teamwork every day.
I work at the Every Nation Campus.
What advice would you give
What do you enjoy most about to students entering the job
When did you graduate?
your job? market?
I graduated in 2018. Was it difficult to adapt from
I enjoy working with students I would advise them to keep
and contributing to the bodies of working hard and smart in order being a student to being a
knowledge. I also enjoy transfer- to achieve their end goals. There What qualifications do you young professional?
ring knowledge and sharing my is always room for improvement have? The transition wasn’t difficult; chal-
research with students. and they should always be willing I have a BA Law with Politics / LLB. lenging, but not difficult, because
to learn from those above and the work I do and the portfolios I
around them. run are in areas I had training in.
Do you face any challenges at After completing your studies,
I was therefore well equipped to
work and how do you handle how many interviews were
cope with the work.
them? What are some of the positive you invited to before receiving
Working under pressure is a personal attributes that you a job offer?
challenge for most professionals, have gained from the NWU I was invited to one interview. What key competencies do you
including myself. Managing time during your academic years? use in your workplace every
and preparing for activities before- The NWU has taught me to be day?
What was your first interview
hand assist me in handling the confident, bold, and be a leader. The most important one is time
like?
pressure. It has also taught me the spirit management. The schedule can
It was an informal, conversa-
of resilience and perseverance. change every day, so I need to be
tion-style interview, which made it
This institution made me the flexible and available to maximise
What did you enjoy the most really comfortable.
person that I am today. I arrived the time I have each day to finish
about your time at the NWU? all I need to do and not leave it
at the NWU as someone seeking
I enjoyed the culture and diversity What would you say is the until later, otherwise the work just
education and later became more
at the NWU. I also enjoyed most important thing to do piles up.
than just an educated individual.
different activities that catered for when going for an interview?
I have gained life-time skills that I
all students. The most important things are to
apply at my workspace today. What do you enjoy most about
be presentable, knowledgeable
your job?
Would you have done anything about the job, and honest when
I enjoy connecting with people.
differently? giving answers.
I also enjoy implementing new
No, during my time at university,
34 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 CAREER GUIDE 2021/2022 35You can also read
