Occupation
Faculty of Theology and Religion: UFS
Senior Assistant Officer: Student Academic Advisor
Academic Background
BDiv (UFS)
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How did your university experience prepare you for your current career?
My university experience taught me a lot but one element that stands out is to be accommodating of others. Academic advising requires one to be versatile, flexible, and hospitable. In this line of work, without these characteristics, one could be perceived as overbearing and intimidating.
Which characteristics or skills are essential for the workplace?
One should be technologically apt, have a willingness to learn, be an efficient communicator, have organisational skills, and, most importantly, be able to work in a team. It is key to be a critical thinker and good at problem solving. Self-management is also very important. To be efficient, one needs to learn how to manage one’s time effectively.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Learning to prioritise equally important tasks (i.e. administrative tasks, walk-ins, and e-mail enquiries). As a student advisor, it is important to listen to the story behind every enquiry and whether it is via e-mail or walk-in consultation, advising each individual is time consuming and one needs to learn how to balance these intricacies.
What drives you to excel in your career?
Good leadership. I know what is expected of me. My duties are clearly defined and for all the submissions and contributions I make, my work is acknowledged and appreciated.
What are the best opportunities for someone entering your career?
Networking, learning from the experts, and the ample room for growth.
Name three things you wish you had been told as a university student.
- A degree does not guarantee you a job!
- You do not have to wait until you have obtained your degree to start gaining work experience.
- Studying towards a qualification is more than about obtaining a degree to make a living; it is about being educated in order to serve more than just oneself!