Relebohile Moholo

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has had an amazing impact on my life. It provided me with essential interview skills that have been extremely useful during my job-hunting journey.

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

Career Services has increased my confidence for job interviews, mainly through the mock interviews it offers. The CV-writing support and professional clothing provided by Career Services also helped me immensely. I am confident that the services and skills it provides will benefit other students as well.

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently an intern for the Graduate Positioning Support Hub, as well as ICT reception, working at the University of the Free State.

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

I wish I had prepared for interviews earlier by making use of the mock interview service. I also wish I had applied for jobs during my final year of study. 

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

Top three tips I can give to students and graduates:
  • Gain Experience Early. Students in their final year should consider volunteering, either within or outside of the university. This helps develop people skills, communication skills, and practical experience, and provides insight into what it is like to work with others..
  • Verify Employers and Avoid Scams. Students should always verify the company they are applying to and be aware of job scams. It is best to apply for available positions directly through official company websites.
  • Use University Resources. Students should make full use of the resources available at the university for job hunting. This includes preparing for interviews in advance by using the support and services offered by Career Services.

Lebohang Nyambose

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has played a vital role in both my undergraduate and postgraduate journey by assisting me with well-tailored CVs, cover letters, and the navigation of LinkedIn as a young professional. Their workshops helped me acquire skills that I should learn and implement to upskill myself within a workplace. .

Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?

Absolutely! I recommend their services to other students because they prepare you professionally to face the world of work when the time is right. Services such as their mock interviews have helped me excel in the professional interviews that I have received invitations for.

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently employed as an intern in the Office of the Premier of the Free State. .

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

I wish I had more practical, hands-on exposure earlier. The university built my theory well, but real workplace experience has helped me understand how policies and systems are implemented in practice. .

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

  • Be intentional and prepared. Always research the organisation you are applying to, tailor your CV and cover letter, and understand how your skills align with the role.
  • Gain practical experience wherever possible. Practical services such as volunteering, short courses, and project work help bridge the gap between theory and practice and make you more competitive.
  • Lastly, my suggestion is to use your network and stay consistent. Always reach out to mentors, lecturers, and professionals; attend career events; and apply consistently. Rejection is part of the process; persistence is key.