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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 first-year wears green and gold for softball
2011-03-28

Jeneva Knell
Photo: Nangamso Koza

Jeneva Knell, a first-year residing in Madelief Residence on our Main Campus, has not only made her parents and community proud, but the university too – her second home, as she calls it. Jeneva has made history at the UFS by being the first student to receive national colours for softball. She joins a very long list of Kovsies who have made us very proud by earning green and gold.

This petite 18-year-old hailing from Kempton Park was tasked with a difficult choice last year as she filed her application forms to universities. She chose Kovsies, even though she was aware that it did not cater for softball players, something she is working hard at ensuring it change. “Sacrificing what I loved most was worth it. I wanted to be part of the changes at the UFS,” Knell says.
 
Her softball career started in Grade 6. Jeneva now proudly boasts the Benoni Rays Club’s colours, the club that produced the star she is today. “My coaches played a major role in turning me into a sports personality. A lot of hard work, sacrifices, dedication and team work are crucial for one to achieve those colours,” she responded.
 
“This is the greatest achievement I have ever attained. I feel very blessed. Without my mother’s love and support I would have never achieved this,” she said.
 
With the upcoming Junior Women’s World Championship in Cape Town, Jeneva is working hard at excelling and making the university proud.

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