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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

Kovsie Alumnus wins SARU rugby player of the year award
2010-11-08

 
Gurthrö Steenkamp.
Photo: Gallo Images

Gurthrö Steenkamp received the prestigious honour to be named the 2010 South African rugby player of the year during the South African Rugby Union (SARU) Awards that were held in Midrand, Gauteng.

Gurthrö, an alumnus of the University of the Free State (UFS), is a former Shimla and Vodacom Cheetahs loose head prop that has represented the Springbok Rugby team in 31 test matches since 2004. Along with fellow Free Stater and former team mate Os du Randt, Gurthrö became only the second front row player in history to win the player of the year award.

Receiving the award this year was no easy task, since Gurthrö had to beat some tough opponents in fellow nominees Gio Aplon, Juan de Jongh, Francois Hougaard and Schalk Burger.

The award comes on the heels of a remarkable season for Gurthrö in which he helped the Vodacom Blue Bulls to lift the Super 14 Trophy for the second consecutive occasion as well as turning in some stellar performances for the Springboks.

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