Setjhaba Mokomotwane

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services helped to ensure my career development through its meaningful assistance with CV writing preparation for interviews as well as the job search process. The networking events at Career Services helped students meet industry experts, which simplified their transition from university to professional career positions.

Would you recommend Career Services to other students? Why or why not?

I strongly advise every student to make use of Career Services due to its valuable services. Students normally delay their career preparations until they need jobs. Career Services provides multiple useful resources, including career counselling, internship placements, and networking platforms that boost student market competitiveness.

What is your current occupation or job?

I work as a site manager, ensuring that construction tasks finish their timeline alongside budget constraints, while leading field employees and monitoring both safety protocols and product quality rules.

What do you wish you had done at university that would have better prepared you for your current role?

My main university regret involves both insufficient participation in practical internships and failure to attend sufficient networking events. On-the-job learning in construction operations would have created a better platform than theoretical knowledge alone. The knowledge obtained in contract management and financial planning would have been useful for my current position.

What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?

Your job application strength will increase by completing construction internships or working part-time while seeking a full-time position. Effective networking includes participating in industry events, joining LinkedIn professional connections, and finding mentors for better career prospects. Each application requires unique customisation when applying, since both your CV and cover letter must show relevant skills and experiences to set yourself apart from other candidates.

Feizel Ze Maduna

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has been instrumental in my professional development. They guided me through the GradStar Awards process, helping me refine my application and make an interesting elevator pitch. The mock interviews and CV reviews were invaluable, providing me with clear areas for improvement. Additionally, the professional headshot added a nice touch to my professional profile. Overall, their support made my transition from university to the professional world much smoother.

Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?

Absolutely! Career Services bridges the gap between academic life and the professional world. They offer resources and insights that are crucial for career development. My experience with them has been amazing, and I believe other students would greatly benefit from their support.

What is your current occupation or job?

I’m currently a cloud support engineer intern at Amazon Web Services (AWS). Additionally, I founded AtomusDev, focusing on cloud computing solutions and AI/ML applications. These roles align with my passion for technology and my career goals in software engineering and cloud technologies.

What do you wish you had done at university that would have assisted you more in your job today?

Looking back, working more on practical projects and finding internships related to cloud computing and AI/ML would have been beneficial. While academic knowledge is essential, hands-on experience during university would have better prepared me for my role in cloud computing. I also wish I had participated more in social activities; balancing academics with extracurriculars could have enriched my university experience.

What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?

  • Network Actively: Attend career events, workshops and connect with professionals on platforms such as LinkedIn. Building a strong network can open unexpected doors. Do not be afraid of putting yourself out there; it is a sign that you are on the right track.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or projects that align with your career interests. Working on personal projects that solve real problems or are enjoyable can only work to improve your skills and make your profile stand out.
  • Stay Informed and Adaptable: The tech industry changes very quickly. Keep up with the latest trends in cloud computing, AI, and software engineering. Embracing new tools and technologies will keep you competitive. Remember, AI might not replace you, but someone using AI could.