Nhlakanipho Gumede #SuccessStory
What impact has Career Services had in your life?
Career Services has had a great and positive impact in my life. Firstly, the CV and Motivational letter-writing workshops curated by Career Services honed my skills and understanding to write excellent motivational letters specific to the job post, and to tailor my CV specifically to the job post I am applying for. The Career Services staff also helped through one-on-one consultations and reading through my motivational letters and CV thoroughly; they were patient enough to assist me with editing and developing the motivational letter and CV to be excellent. Secondly, the career fair events set up by Career Services provided me with a platform to interact with the recruiters from various companies and firms, and those interactions rewarded me with valuable insight and advice that I will cherish forever.
Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?
I would highly recommend Career Services to other students, because these services are very valuable and important to all students who wish to embark on their career paths after university. The services provided will equip students with valuable skills, such as interview skills, CV writing skills, motivational writing skills, and many more. Career Services further connects the students with prospective employers, which is a rare opportunity, and thus students should embrace this opportunity provided by Career Services.
What is your current occupation or job?
I am currently working/practising as a Candidate Attorney/ Candidate Legal Practitioner.
What do you wish you had done at university that would have assisted you more in your job today?
To be honest, I am very privileged to have participated in various activities, events, and workshops at the university, because all those experiences have shaped me to thrive in my job. I would advise students to broaden their horizons by grabbing every opportunity offered by the university to engage and participate in events, activities, attend workshops, and join extracurricular activities that will assist in the individual person’s personal growth and development, as well as their professional and career growth.
What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?
Tip 1: Spiritual strength: Always have faith and hope that you will get the job. Never lose faith and never lose hope. Be consistent in your prayers and be specific in your prayers about the job you are praying for.
Tip 2: Emotional and mental strength: Never be discouraged by the rejections you get from companies. Always keep applying until you get that yes. It is going to be tough, but have a positive mindset and watch motivational videos, read motivation quotes so that you are inspired to continue hunting until you secure the job.
Tip 3: Be active and productive: Constantly seek advice and do research on ways to develop your CV and motivational letter. There is no perfect CV or motivational letter; however, you can gain the skill to write exceptional motivational letters and CVs. Apply for at least 100 job posts and out of that 100, you will get that one yes.
Betty Mine #SuccessStory
What impact has Career Services had in your life?
Career Services has had a profound impact on my professional development and career trajectory. One of the most significant benefits I experienced was the convenience of checking for vacancies on its website, which streamlined my job search process and helped me stay informed about new opportunities. Its mock interviews were incredibly valuable, providing me with a safe space to practise and refine my interview skills, which boosted my confidence and performance in actual interviews.
Additionally, Career Services' CV review service was instrumental in ensuring that my resume was polished and competitive. Its expert feedback helped me highlight my strengths and experiences effectively, making a stronger impression on potential employers.
The Diamond League programme was another standout feature that greatly contributed to my growth. It offered unique networking opportunities, workshops, and resources that enriched my understanding of various industries and career paths. This programme was pivotal in expanding my professional network and knowledge base.
Overall, I firmly believe that every young individual can benefit greatly from the support of Career Services. Its comprehensive resources and personalised guidance are invaluable assets in navigating the early stages of one's career.
Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?
Absolutely, I would highly recommend Career Services to other students. The support and resources offered are invaluable for several reasons:
Job search assistance: Its website provides a convenient and comprehensive platform for checking vacancies, making it easier to stay updated with the latest job opportunities.
Interview preparation: The mock interviews it conducts are a fantastic way to practise and hone interview skills, significantly boosting confidence and performance during actual interviews.
Every young individual can benefit immensely from the structured support and expert advice provided by Career Services, making it a crucial resource for students aiming to effectively kickstart their careers.
What is your current occupation or job?
I am currently working as a Junior Accountant at an accounting firm.
What do you wish you had done at university that would have assisted you more in your job today?
As a junior accountant currently working at an accounting firm, there are several things I wish I had done at university that would have better prepared me for my job today:
More internships and work experience: Gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs in accounting firms would have provided me with a better understanding of real-world accounting practices and software used in the industry.
Networking: I wish I had taken more advantage of networking opportunities, such as attending industry conferences, joining accounting clubs, and participating in networking events. Building a strong professional network can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable industry insights.
Advanced Excel and accounting software skills: While I learned the basics of Excel and accounting software in my courses, having advanced skills in these areas would have made my transition to the workplace smoother. Proficiency in tools such as Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting software is crucial in an accounting role.
Reflecting on these points, I realise that a more proactive approach to combining academic learning with practical experience and professional development opportunities would have greatly benefited my current role as a junior accountant.
What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?
For students and graduates entering job hunting season, here are the top three tips to ensure a successful and manageable job search process:
1.Start the job-hunting process early: Begin your job search well before graduation. This gives you ample time to research potential employers, understand industry requirements, and tailor your applications. Early preparation can also help you to secure internships or part-time jobs that can lead to full-time positions.
2.Set application targets and tailor your CV: Set a weekly target for the number of applications you plan to submit. This keeps you motivated and ensures a steady flow of opportunities. Additionally, tailor your CV for each specific job you apply for. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description to make your application stand out.
3.Take care of your mental health: Job hunting can be stressful, so it is crucial to prioritise your mental health. Maintain a balanced routine, incorporate breaks, and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Seek support from friends, family, or Career Services if you feel overwhelmed.
