Success Story - September 2026

By Relebohile Moholo

Phumzwa Jantjie

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has strengthened my confidence and professional development. Through the mock interview, I received practical feedback that helped me structure my answers, use the STAR method, communicate more clearly, and prepare confidently for my formal interview.

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

Without a doubt. Their support is practical, encouraging, and tailored to individual needs. They help students recognise their strengths, improve their job-search skills, and prepare more effectively for employment opportunities.

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently an assistant officer in the Centre for Graduate Support at the University of the Free State. My work includes student support, workshop coordination, stakeholder engagement, data management, and reporting. 

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

I wish I had engaged with Career Services earlier and participated in more career-development activities. Building my interview, networking, and professional communication skills sooner would have prepared me even better for the workplace.

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:
  • Use Career Services: Attend any Career Services events you can, request feedback on your CV, and participate in mock interviews.
  • Prepare for every opportunity: Research the organisation, tailor your application, and practise answering interview questions using relevant examples.
  • Remain persistent and willing to learn: Rejection is part of the process, so use every application and interview as an opportunity to improve.

Khanya Tlhola

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has had a huge impact on my career development by assisting me with navigating possible career pathways and better understanding how my university experience and skill can translate into the workplace. The tips and guidance for mock interviews, along with the volunteering exposure I received, helped me develop better intention and insight about my career choices, and ultimately more confidence in exploring opportunities beyond my academic environment.

Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?

Definitely. I would recommend Career Services to other ambitious students, because it provides valuable guidance, career-related support, and exposure to opportunities that students may not always be aware of. It is also a useful platform for gaining insight into the world of work and preparing yourself for life beyond university.

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently working as a communications and marketing assistant in the Department of Social Work. While gaining practical experience, I am applying the knowledge and skills I developed during my university studies in a professional environment.

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

I wish I had placed more emphasis on networking while I had ample time to do so. It would have allowed me to build professional relationships, engage with other people in different industries, and connect with individuals who could provide career insight. It would have assisted me with developing a stronger professional network and gaining greater exposure to the workplace earlier.

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

  • Be inquisitive and ask questions; never be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Curiosity can open doors, help you learn from others, and expose you to opportunities you may not have considered.
  • Preparation beats luck – take the time to prepare your CV, develop your skills, research organisations, and understand the roles you are applying for. Being prepared allows you to make the most of opportunities when they do appear.
  • Patience is a virtue. The job-search process can be time-consuming, and rejection is sometimes part of the journey. Rejection can also mean redirection. However, remain persistent, continue improving yourself, and trust that the right opportunity will come with consistent effort.