Success Story - October 2026

By Relebohile Moholo

Orapeleng Motsalane

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

 Career Services played a significant role in helping me transition from student to young professional. They provided the guidance and practical skills I needed to navigate the job market, ultimately helping me secure my position as an internal audit intern at the University of the Free State

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

Absolutely. Career Services gave me access to valuable opportunities, guidance, and resources that helped me understand my strengths and prepare for life after university.

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently an internal audit intern at the University of the Free State (UFS), where I contribute to audit projects, assess compliance, and support risk management initiatives. Through this role, I have developed strong analytical, communication, and critical-thinking skills while gaining practical insight into organisational governance and accountability.

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

I wish I had spent more time building my professional network and stepping out of my comfort zone socially. Strong communication and relationship-building skills have proven to be valuable in my role as an internal audit intern.

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:
  • Be open to learning. Not every opportunity will be your dream job, but every experience has something to teach you. The skills and lessons you gain along the way can help shape your career and open new doors.
  • Start applying before you feel ready. It is easy to wait until you think you have everything figured out, but growth happens when you take that first step. Many opportunities are created for people who are still learning and developing.
  •  Stay persistent. The job search process can be challenging, and rejection is part of the journey. Do not let it discourage you. Learn from each experience, keep improving, and trust that the right opportunity will come.

Tshepiso Monomane

What impact has Career Services had in your life?

Career Services has had a positive impact on my life by helping me gain clarity about my career goals, identify my strengths, and explore opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?

Yes, I would recommend Career Services to other students because it provides valuable guidance and support in preparing for life beyond university. It helps students identify their strengths, explore career opportunities, develop professional skills, and prepare for the job market

What is your current occupation or job?

I am currently employed as a GPS success coach in the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the University 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 taken advantage of more career development opportunities, internships, and practical training during my time at university.

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

  • Start preparing early and make use of Career Services. Do not wait until you graduate to start looking for opportunities.
  • Develop a strong CV and tailor each application.
  • Make sure that your CV is professional & be persistent, proactive, and open to learning. Job hunting can be challenging, and rejection is part of the process.