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20 June 2023 | Story Melissa Kilian | Photo Supplied
Melissa Kilian
Melissa Kilian is a Lecturer in the Department of Occupational Therapy.

The University of the Free State (UFS) is celebrating Youth Month by showcasing the positive influence of the institution on career development. As part of this initiative, we are sharing the stories of UFS alumni who are now working at the university.

Melissa Kilian, Lecturer in the Department of Occupational Therapy, shares her UFS journey:

Q: Year of graduation from the UFS:

A: 2011 and 2021.

Q: Qualification obtained from the UFS:

A: Baccalaureus and Master of Occupational Therapy.

Q: Date of joining the UFS as a staff member:

A: 1 June 2022 (employed for one year this month).

Q: Initial job title and current job title:

A: Lecturer in Occupational Therapy.

Q: How did the UFS prepare you for the professional world?

A: The UFS provided me with excellent clinical exposure to the diverse profession of occupational therapy. Additionally, the occupational therapy undergraduate course provided many opportunities for promoting self-awareness and self-development and entering the workforce as a graduate willing to explore the dimensions of the profession and what my unique contribution can be.

Q: What are your thoughts on transitioning from a UFS alumnus to a staff member?

A: Since being employed with the UFS, I have a deeper acknowledgement and appreciation for lecturers, as well as a multi-layered understanding of the importance of curriculum development and how this translates into students becoming competent graduates.

Q: Any additional comments about your experience?

A: It’s been quite an experience ...!

News Archive

UFS Qwaqwa Campus celebrates student excellence
2010-10-29

Dr Elias Malete, Campus Principal, with Ms Makakane

Christmas came early for the student community of the University of the Free State (Qwaqwa Campus). This after the Chairman of the Phuthaditjhaba-based Salemane Holdings, Mr Mei Salemane, announced a three-year sponsorship deal for the campus’ Student Affairs Excellence Awards during the prestigious awards ceremony held recently.

“We fully understand from experience that a lot of young people are from disadvantaged families, which hamper their development in most cases. We are not any different from them; that is why we vow to make a difference by pledging our support by sponsoring these awards for the next three years at a tune of R150 000 annually,” said Mr Mei whilst handing over cash prizes to the value of R28 000 to the best-performing students in the four faculties.

In response, the Director of Student Affairs, Mr Teboho Manchu, acknowledged the role that local businesses can play in supporting higher education.

“We wish to thank Salemane Holdings and other sponsors for giving recognition to young men and women for their achievements,” concluded Manchu.

Awards issued on the day covered a wide range that included academic performance as well as for sporting and cultural excellence.

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