Post Matric, Gauteng 2014

POST MATRIC

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AUTENG 2014 | G

atric

GAUTENG 2014

it’s your ITʼS YOUR FUTURE

future

Inspiration Central Find your dream career here...

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make no bones about it

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from the ed

CONSTANTLY EVOLVING EDITOR

Samantha Collins sam@yesmedia.co.za ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER

Clare Schenk clare@yesmedia.co.za PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Ursula Munnik ursula@yesmedia.co.za ASSISTANT / COPY EDITOR

Olivia Main CONTRIBUTORS

Isak de Vries, Christina Kennedy, Robbie Stammers, Lindsey Schutters, Kim Maxwell, Peter Rudden NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

Jan Weiss jan@yesmedia.co.za PROJECT SALES MANAGER

Shakier Groenewald shakier@yesmedia.co.za ADVERTISING SALES

Nina Nodder, Priscilla September, Aaminah van Oudtshoorn, Shannon Higgo TEL 021 447 6467 FAX 021 447 6351 EMAIL info@yesmedia.co.za POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 44383,

Claremont 7735, South Africa www.yesmedia.co.za

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PUBLISHER Yes! Media CEO Deon Muller PRINTED BY

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Post Matric is published by Yes!Media. All copyright in material appearing in this magazine belongs to Yes!Media and/or the individual contributors.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or Yes!Media. No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions in the contents of the magazine.

“The times, they are a-changin’,” crooned someone with a gravelly voice whose name starts with Bob and who you may, or may not, remember. And he wasn’t wrong. Seems that as soon as one gets abreast of them, they up and shoot off, leaving one swimming upstream in a bid to keep up.

We at the Post Matric team HQ have been doing our fair share of keeping up with the times, sniffing out the latest facts and interesting findings that we hope will assist you when it comes to those all-important decisions you are grappling with; life-changers that will ultimately shape your future.

Those of you preparing to write your big, bad Matric exams might find the article on pg 24 useful; a modern and pragmatic approach to successful studying that should help you stay on track right through to the finish line. (Think less frills, more drills!)

If you’re desperately seeking finance to take your studies further after school’s out, look no further than page 40, where our bursary -hunting fairy uses her sparkle to put the fun back into funding.

And to help you stay switched on to the awesome options available to you once your matric year ends, and the prom is just a dusty dance floor in the distance, see ‘No Degree? No Problem!’ on pg 30. There are plenty of options out there, and while a varsity degree is obviously desirable, it is no longer the be-all and end-all that it was once thought to be.

We hope you enjoy reading our inspirational stories, and gain some insight by peering through the many different career windows open to you thanks to our Q&A contributors. Even now, in the fifth year of editing this magazine, I am sometimes amazed to discover a whole new career path or job that I’d never even heard of, let alone considered.

Round off your read by having a good giggle at us, the not-thatold-but-not-exactly-young-anymore generation. Yep, your parents.

Because, although we love to remind ourselves that we have years of invaluable experience that you don’t have, there is no denying that we can’t possibly keep up with you when it comes to technology, gadgets and modern-day wizardry in general. You win!

Post Matric ISSN number 2074-4412

Sam Collins EDITOR: POST MATRIC

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CONTENTS 14

FEATURES 14

PALaEO WHAT? Meet Professor Chinsamy-Turan, a celebrated scientist whose ambition is to bring science home to the dinner table, along with a dinosaur bone or two.

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DEVELOP YOUR STUDY PLAN SIx-PACK So you think you can wing it on the back of a highlighter pen? Rather read our study plan. Then put in the work.

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NO DEGREE? NO PROBLEM! Here they are, in black and white... allow us to demystify the options available to you if university isn’t on your cards.

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30

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PRETTY AWESOME Talented, beautiful and truly inspiring, we chat to the woman who has put South A frica on the map in the world of operatics.

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PUTTING THE FUN INto FUNDING Heaps of advice on how to secure financial aid and make your tertiary study dreams come true. Make it happen!

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competition

WIN A SAMSUNG POCKET PLUS

STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A SAMSUNG GALAXY POCKET PLUS (S6010)

PRODUCT FEATURES Packing a lot of power into a compact form, Samsung’s GALAXY Pocket promises strong performance without the bulk. The 832Mhz processor lets you do more, whether you’re browsing the web with Wi-Fi, downloading files using HSDPA, or connecting with friends on various social networking sites. Android ™ 2.3 Gingerbread Platform and the TouchWiz interface simplify usage, whether taking advantage of Google mobile services, Samsung Apps or ChatOn.

HOW TO ENTER SMS the name of the province you live in, followed by your age, followed by the name of the school where you got your copy of Post Matric to 34009.

EXAMPLE: ‘GAUTENG 18 AZARA SECONDARY’. If you did not get your copy from school, SMS the relationship of the person from whom you got your copy – for example, ‘GAUTENG 15 BROTHER’ or ‘GAUTENG 17 FRIEND’.

COMPETITION RULES: Cost per SMS is R2. Free SMS’s do not apply. Competition closes 29 August 2014. You may enter as many times as you like.

By entering the competition you consent to receiving electronic information regarding Post Matric or other further education or career offerings.

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tech essentials SMS AUDIO STAR WARS While everyone is getting with the beats, why not break tradition with these premium cans? 50 Cent is heavily invested in the audiophile game, and the SMS Audio Street By 50 Cent range shows it. The immersive sound costs a bit, but you pay for quality that’s only undermined by a little creaking on the hinges. The Star Wars edition is a limited run and comes in four designs packed with the same powerful 40mm drivers and OvalFit cushioning.

GOTTA HAVE

Compile your wish list for Santa early this year with the help of tech savvy Lindsey Schutters.

LIVESCRIBE 3 Varsity life is fast and you’re a bug on a Lamborghini bonnet hitting information at full throttle. The Livescribe 3 smartpen uses infrared camera tech to record your scribbles and doodles, and will beam it via bluetooth to your iPad via the Livescribe+ app.

SONY XPERIA E1 A full set of smartphone features including Android 4.3 complement – the insanely loud 100db loudspeaker for a brilliant multimedia package.

Remember those brilliant Walkman phones Sony used to produce? This is exactly that. Back comes the dedicated Walkman button and the excellent speakers. You also get 50GB free cloud storage for life for your multitasking.

THULE ENROUTE STRUT Twenty-first century tuition is a technology-based game, and repurposing your school satchel as a laptop bag isn’t going to cut it.

Swedish master luggage-solution designers Thule built all their best innovations into a backpack that swaddles your iPad and 15-inch Macbook in cushioned protection, and even provides a crushproof pocket to keep your sunglasses safe and sound. Comfortable straps, dual bottle holders and a bottle opener round out this multitalented pack’s impressive skills list.

P H O T O S :SU P P L IE D

HUAWEI E5220 Imagine a world where you travel with your own personal Wi-Fi hot spot. Now stop imagining and get your hands on this personal Wi-Fi router that you can use with any data simcard. You get four hours of mobile broadband goodness out of a single charge, and you can even use it overseas (with a data sim from a local supplier) and save bucks while staying connected. Yes please, Santa!

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back on track

Desperately Seeking a Degree Q Q

Still desperate to get into varsity, but grades didn’t cut it? Your qualification catch-up questions answered…

ALL ABOARD THE VARSITY EXPRESS My matric results weren’t good enough for me to get into my desired university course. Is this the end of the road for my career dreams?

A: Don’t stress! There are several options open to you to improve your marks or upgrade your matric pass. First of all, you can apply at your old high school to redo some of your subjects.

Also, if you act quickly after receiving your matric results, you can apply to your district or regional education department office to write a supplementary exam. But you’ll need to prove that you qualified to be admitted to a higher education institution, but fell one requirement short of meeting its standards.

You could also consider rewriting certain matric subjects through a registered private or public further education and training (FET) college. You would need to enrol for an NQF Level 4 qualification, which is the academic equivalent of Grade 12.

Q

I’ve heard there are some dodgy private colleges out there. How can I find out if the college I choose is legit?

A: You need to check whether it is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (there is a list on their website at www.dhet.gov.za) and accredited with the South African Qualifications Authority (www.saqa.org.za).

Q

Is it possible to redo certain matric subjects part-time?

A: Yes, you can upgrade your matric part-time or at night school through a number of colleges. You can also complete it via correspondence or distance learning. These days, it’s even possible do rewrite your matric online, complete with video lectures and electronic exercises!

Q

Q

I don’t want to waste an entire year redoing a couple of subjects in order to get better marks. Is there another option?

A: You may be able to do a bridging course that will enable you to get into your degree of choice without going through the hassle of rewriting matric subjects. Find out from tertiary institutions whether they offer such courses, and if you are eligible.

Q

Can I go and study a few years after I’ve written matric, even with my low marks?

A: Yes. If you are 23 or older, you are regarded as a ‘mature student’ and many academic institutions will accept you even if your original matric marks prevented you from studying at the time.

Unisa, for example, requires you to have passed at least four matric subjects with an E or better (with at least one subject on higher grade).

I don’t have the correct matric subjects to gain entry to a certain degree. Is it possible to choose and write different subjects post-matric?

A: It is possible, although there will probably be certain conditions attached. You may be required to complete Grades 10, 11 and 12 in that particular subject before you are eligible for the degree course.

I didn’t get a very good matric, but I’ve since notched up work experience in my chosen profession. If I want to attend varsity now, do I still need to bump up my marks?

A: The good news is that you may not have to go back to school, thanks to the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, which acknowledges the value of informal or on-the-job learning.

You can approach Higher Education South Africa (www.hesa.org.za) or a university with a copy of your matric certificate, and be sure to include your relevant experience and training. They will evaluate your application and may provide you with a certificate that recognises your prior learning. That could be your golden ticket to getting into varsity!

Q

Where can I find out about options for rewriting my matric subjects?

A: Contact your school, the Matriculation Board, Umalusi (www.umalusi.org.za) or the Department of Higher Education and Training for advice.

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It’s not a living science, reminds Anusuya Chinsamy-Turan. Instead as a palaeobiologist she interprets bone signals to try to make extinct animals ‘come alive’.

One of her ambitions is to win over young minds to the wonders of science.

By Kim Maxwell

PALAEO WHAT?

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inspirational from the people ed

Anusuya Chinsamy-

Turan is a scientist, mother and leader in her field. Her daunting list of accolades include Anusuya being named South Africa’s Woman of the Year in 2005 (she nabbed the Science and Technology category and was overall winner), and the Department of Science and Technology’s Distinguished Woman Scientist Award in the same year.

This University of Cape Town professor and head of department of Biological Sciences is a palaeobiologist. That’s why she’s authored three books on dinosaurs and published various academic papers. Yet Anusuya’s warm nature and eagerness to share is what stands out most when you meet her. “It’s important that we do scientific research but it’s equally important that the public understands science and what scientists do,” she says. That goes some way to explaining why she won the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Prize for the public understanding and popularisation of science from the World Academy of Science in 2013. ➜

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inspirational from the people ed fossils from the ground and identifying them. But as a palaeobiologist, her primary research interest is not in the excavation of fossils – that’s a side story – but rather in reconstructing these animals as they once lived, by studying sections of “Science is so important; their bones under a microscope.

Within those ancient bones it impacts on every there are records of an animal’s aspect of our lives.” life history. “Once the bones are excavated from the surrounding rock and prepared, then scientists like me work out what we can say about the biology of these animals.

Examining thin bone sections under a microscope to see their microstructure, we can make deductions about the animal’s age, any possible diseases, the effect of its environment, and how it functioned and Palaeo is a bit of a buzzword these days, thanks grew,” she explains. largely to the recognition of the Cradle of Mankind As a vertebrate palaeobiologist, meaning she works archaeological sites at Sterkfontein and Maropeng on animals that have an internal body skeleton, in recent years. The cradle has popularised human Anusuya has published extensive research on evolution in palaeontology, the study of prehistoric life, dinosaurs, and also on their relationship to early but there is more to South African palaeontology than birds. “Most palaeontologists consider dinosaurs to be human history. Palaeobiology is a more specialised ancestors of modern birds, so I’ve studied early birds, area of palaeontology research, where scientists look and tried to work out how the transition from nonat reconstructing the biology of extinct animals or avian dinosaurs to birds evolved,” she says. Anusuya other prehistoric life forms. has also studied the fossilised bone microstructure of To understand the differences, Anusuya says a flying reptiles called pterosaurs. palaeontologist is mainly interested in removing ➜

WHAT IS PALAEOBIOLOGY? A palaeobiologist is primarily interested in removing fossils of animals or plants from the ground, and then reconstructing them to understand them as once-living organisms. There are different branches within palaeobiology. A vertebrate palaeobiologist specifically works with animals that have an internal body skeleton i.e. any animal with bones. Other palaeobiologists work solely on fossil insects, fossil plants or even fossil pollen.

A vertebrate palaeobiologist (such as Anusuya) uses the bone microstructure to unravel biological information from the fossilised bones. They make a thin section of a fossil bone and study it under a microscope, to provide clues about the animal’s age, diseases, environment or how it grew.

Vertebrate palaeobiologists have discovered that in some dinosaurs – a Tyrannosaurus rex, for example – you will find rings within their bones (similar to the rings found inside a tree) that can be counted to determine the age of that dinosaur. It’s a little like piecing a puzzle together. If you have a number of T.rex individuals, say a juvenile, a sub-adult and an adult, a vertebrate palaeobiologist can reconstruct a growth curve for different stages and work out the overall growth dynamics for T.rex. post matric 2014 // 17

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inspirational from the people ed The common thread in all her research is in trying to unravel the biological signals recorded in fossil bones. Age and environment aside, these bones can provide information about whether a bird was moulting, laying eggs or diseased, before it died millions of years ago.

Anusuya studied a science degree at Wits, with the intention of doing a postgraduate Diploma in Education to become a teacher. But in the final year of her science degree she discovered palaeontology – and continued with an honours degree that included a palaeontology module. “I liked the idea that there was no animal sacrifice, that I was working with animals that were long dead, and that with my knowledge of biology I was able to reconstruct animals we know so little about,” she explains. She continued with a Masters and PhD degree in Science, specialising in palaeontology.

Normally any academic has both a research and teaching component in their work. Anusuya loves both aspects of the job (she completed a Higher Diploma in Education to qualify as a teacher too, but it isn’t a requirement). “Of course, as head of department I have extra admin responsibilities,” she says. “But being able to lecture and “Palaeo is a bit of a to do the research buzzword these days” is really wonderful.

I thoroughly enjoy engaging with my students and being able to give them cutting-edge information. So when I teach it’s not only from a textbook but also from our lab research, or from a new published paper.”

Palaeobiology is a career that involves both laboratory and field work, so if you don’t like lab work it isn’t a sensible career choice. The amount of field work usually depends on an individual palaeobiologist’s scientific specialisation. But all fieldwork samples have to be collected and laboriously prepped for further study, and that only ever happens in a lab itself.

It all matters though. Without Anusuya’s palaeontology studies, we wouldn’t know about the existence of many African dinosaurs. She was part of a group that discovered the Nqwebasaurus dinosaur in the mid-90s, for instance. “My colleague studied the fossils to discover the identity of the bones. I provided the information about how old the dinosaur was. We put that together and wrote up a description of the animal,” recalls Anusuya. “We now know it’s a small-bodied sub-adult or adult. From the red-grey mudstone rocks in the Kirkwood area of the Algoa Basin where we found this dinosaur, we know these

Above: Anusuya and a colleague with world-renowned naturalist and celebrity David Attenborough.

STUDY TO BE A PALAEOBIOLOGIST: UCT and Wits offer excellent programmes because they have specialists working in palaeontology.

- BSc (three years) with Biology as a major (Geology is a useful subject) - Honours in Biology or Geology with specialisations in Palaeontology (one year) - Master’s in Palaeontology (two years) - PhD in Palaeontology (three years) TIP: You can fast-track and upgrade a Master’s to a PhD so you can finish in only three to four years. Talented Master’s and PhD palaeobiology students often have overseas travel opportunities for on-site excavations, research or conferences. post matric 2014 // 19

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animals were about 130 million years old. The Karoo basin was home to earlier-aged dinosaurs of about 190 million years old.”

Science is something people should talk about more around the dinner table, if Anusuya has her way, and she recognises the need for scientists to communicate their research better.

“Science is so important; it impacts on every aspect of our lives,” she says. “There is enormous scope for scientific research in South Africa. So when I’m talking to the public it’s about science, and not just about dinosaurs. Of course it’s often through dinosaurs that kids get excited about science. Yet even with dinosaurs, kids are learning about classification, age or geological time, or about interactions between

different organisms, so unwittingly they’re learning about science and to think in a scientific way.”

Anusuya is married to a materials engineer and their two sons also love science (one is completing matric, the other is 15). Avid readers, both sons also enjoy music and play a few instruments. Anusuya is encouraging her matric son to make his own career choices – her only advice is that he should study something he enjoys. “I’m originally from Pretoria, from a family of three girls. We’re all well-educated professionals,” she says. “Growing up, my parents saw education as a stepping stone to overcome the barriers that apartheid imposed on us as black women. It was a way for us to become self-reliant.”

Did you KNOW? Very good fossil records tell us that some of the earliest evidence of life on earth dates to about 3.5 billion years, with actual micro-organisms represented in rocks dating to about 3 billion years. If you’re still questioning evolution, there is now so much evidence to support it.

Africa has the largest meat-eating dinosaur of all time. Larger than Tyrannosaurus rex, Carcharodontosaurus was a predatory dinosaur (its triangular teeth resembled those of a great white shark) that prowled over much of North Africa 97 to 90 million years ago.

Anusuya was involved in the exhibition on African dinosaurs for the Iziko South African Museum. Anusuya and her students have done a lot of work on the vertebrate collections displayed.

The plant-eating Massospondylus dinosaur was the first African dinosaur to be formally named in 1854. It’s the best-represented dinosaur in South Africa, ranging from embryos-still-inside-eggs to juveniles, teens and adults, mostly found in the red beds of the Karoo basin. Anusuya studied the microstructure of juvenile bones and worked out it took about 15 years for these individuals to grow to adult body size.

SA has the only isiXhosa-named dinosaur, called Nqwebasaurus thwazi. It’s a small meat-eating dinosaur found in Nqweba, the isiXhosa name for the Kirkwood region of the Eastern Cape. Thwazi means fast runner.

ANUSUYA’S TOP TIPS: Young people should access information online and research science subjects. You can reach out much further and become part of a global network that isn’t restricted to South Africa.

Our Biological Sciences department often hosts school groups for workshops (a teacher usually contacts us). We’ve also had school learners doing job shadows in our department to understand the working life of an academic.

If you love science, follow your passion. In the end it’s not about how much money you make, it’s about doing what you love. Academics have a comfortable life. The best thing is that we get paid for what we love doing.

When presenting your work – even as a student – make sure it’s the best you can do. You never know who might be listening. When I finished my PhD I travelled to Oslo, Norway. After I presented two papers from my PhD research, I was offered two postdoctoral fellowships. I accepted one at the University of Pennsylvania in USA.

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EVELOP

YOUR STUDY PLAN SIX-PACK Do you want to be a good athlete?

Run a lot.

Do you want to be an amazing dancer?

Dance a lot.

Do you want to do well in the exams?

Examine yourself a lot.

Huh?

PHOTO: iStock / 4x6

By Isak de Vries

GOTCHA! It is true.

You will not get a six-pack by looking at hot bodies in magazines. Start doing sit-ups!

You will never get to the Olympic Games by watching sport on television. You need to practise that sport five to six days a week.

You will never pass matric by watching your teacher. Nope. You have to practise answering exam questions five to six days a week.

Listening in class helps. Paying attention is extremely important, but it is not enough.

If you want to pass the final exams, you have practise answering questions for the exams.

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study time WHAT THE LATEST RESEARCH SAYS “Many students are being left behind by an educational system that some people believe is in crisis.”

Guess who said this? Helen Zille? Julius Malema? Nope, it was not even a South African and neither were they talking about South Africa.

It is the first sentence in an academic article on study techniques published at the end of last year in the United States of America.

The article tells the story of the biggest research project ever done on study techniques.

Five academics* from four of the USA’s largest universities tried to determine which study techniques work best. What did they find? They found that writing exams is like playing sport. You want to be really good at something? Start now and practise hard.

So, what does that mean to someone studying for matric? Two things: 1) Start early and do a little bit of study on each subject every day. (This is referred to as ‘distributed practice’.)

2) Practise by writing lots of tests or exams. (Otherwise known as ‘practice testing’.)

IT IS JUST LIKE SPORT Thinking about getting a nice, flat stomach? Well, what will work best: a hundred sit-ups the night before the date; or thirty sit-ups every day for six weeks? Of course it is better to do fewer sit-ups over a longer period of time. That’s distributed practice in action. Do a little bit of work each and every day. This is so much better than cramming the night before.

And will you get a flat stomach by highlighting all the stomach tips in magazines? Nope. Sit down. Start doing them. All those fancy highlighters that you are using to help you study do not help much.

The best way to pass an exam is to work through old question papers.

Test yourself, get your friends and your family to test you. Ask your teacher for old papers and for tests. This is called practice testing by the academics.

STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS Stop worrying about the guys who get eight straight As. Your worrying is not going to mean anything to them, nor will it help you.

Remember, it is like a 10km run.

Only about 30 people in the world can make it to an Olympic final, so run your own race. Study for your own matric. Stop trying to be someone else.

PRESSURE AND EXPECTATION So the family wants you to do extra well? The headmaster has already made that speech about doing the school proud? A few times, actually?

For once you have to be deaf to what others want: This one is on you. Do the best YOU can.

YOU CAN DO IT

Stop telling yourself: “I’m gonna fail, I’m gonna fail!” Start studying. You can do it, even if it is hard. Negative thoughts won’t help you. The more you study, the easier it gets.

WHAT DOES NOT WORK? The American study found that a whole lot of things we have been taught about studying do not really work well. Here are a few techniques that did not actually produce very good results: Writing summaries, highlighting, using keyword mnemonics (donkey bridges), creating cool pictures to try and remember your work, and loads of rereading.

All these things take time, but they are not as effective as answering old exam papers.

NOW FOR THE REALLY COOL NEWS Even average students score well if they practise working through exams or tests five days a week. Once again, the idea is to do a little bit of work on each subject every school day.

It is like running. Not all of us can reach the Olympics, but most of us can easily finish a 10km race – if we train a little bit five days a week.

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STUDY TIPS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS BE HEALTHY, EAT THE RIGHT FOOD Athletes are careful about what they eat and how much they drink. Most athletes will have a good party now and again, but they know: healthy food, very little sugar and enough sleep will get them to the top.

Be very careful of energy drinks.

They contain enormous amounts of sugar. Sugar is not healthy; it simply makes the body secrete a lot of insulin and that could make you feel tired and/or irritable.

GET SOME EXERCISE A fit body studies better than an unfit body. Try doing some form of exercise at least five days a week.

Go walking with friends, or with a pet. Playing tennis, going for a jog, having a swim or pumping some iron in the gymnasium are all clever ways to stay in shape. Others may enjoy dancing every now and again.

CELLPHONES? EISH! We all know that it is easier to go somwhere without underwear than it is to go without a cellphone, but be careful... while you are studying, you should learn to ignore the BBMs, the WhatsApps, the Facebook prompts, etc.

Check the tweets when you have done some work and you are ready to take a break.

Start early – it is easier and better than cramming.

Do a little bit of work on every subject at least five days a week.

When you start studying, switch off the phone.

Get enough sleep. Get enough exercise.

Test yourself, over and over and over.

Believe in yourself. You can do it if you practice.

Work the old exam papers.

Ask your teacher for tests.

Set tests for your friends. Answer the tests they set.

Prepare a box with all the things you will need, then you do not have to get up and go looking for things all the time.

Have fun in between.

TAKE A BREAK, TAKE A FEW BREAKS

DOING IT WITH FRIENDS

Study really hard for a while.

Work those old exam papers.

Test yourself on the work that you have just gone through. Then take a break. It need not be a long break, just get up and do something.

Studying, like sport, can be done with friends. Working through a difficult paper can also be done in groups, but it is important that you participate fully. Looking at your friends working out the paper will not help you work it out.

When I was at school, my maths teacher used to say that maths is not a spectator sport, one has to practice. She was right!

FINDING A ROUTINE Some people like routines and enjoy revising the same subject at the same time every day. Try it. If you discover that you work differently, find a way that works for you.

WHERE TO STUDY? Where do you study best? It depends on you, but a library, a school hall, a little corner at a family member’s or friend’s house – any of these may work. You must look for a place that really works for you, then claim it!

REFERENCES

* John Dunlosky, Katherine A. Rawson, Elizabeth J. Marsh, Mitchell J. Nathan and Daniel T. Willingham.

2013. “Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology.” In: Psychological Science in the Public Interest. 14(1) 4–58. Wesbite http:// psi.sagepub.com/content/14/1/4.full.

WEBSITES AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO HELP A great site which offers exam papers and memoranda: http://www.teachme2.co.za/matric-past-papers/ A private site that offers a whole stack of old exam papers. They are cellphone friendly: http://olivershouse.co.za/community-projects/educational-learning-centre/grade-12-past-exam-papers/ Old exam papers posted by the Department of Education: http://www.education.gov.za/Examinations/ PastExamPapers/ FebruaryMarch2013Exampapers/tabid/878/Default.aspx More old exam papers from the Department of Education: http://www.education.gov.za/Examinations/ PastExamPapers/tabid/351/Default.aspx Yes, even more from the Department of Education – just click on the subject: http://www.thutong.doe.gov. za/Home/Curriculum/tabid/257/Default.aspx Pearson Education has a few very good study guides to help you focus on your studies: http://www. pearson.co.za/study-guides Oxford University Press also has separate study guides available: http://www.oxford.co.za/page/schools/ study-guides/index 24 // post matric 2014

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If university is not an option for you, it’s not the end of the world – there are other paths that can lead to personal and career success.

By Christina Kennedy

NO DEGREE? NO PROBLEM! Some

of the world’s greatest business pioneers, like Apple’s Steve Jobs and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, never completed their university studies. This proves that with enough imagination and entrepreneurial zeal, you can achieve great things in life without having a framed degree adorning your office.

The truth is that varsity is not for everyone – you may not be academically inclined, but have strong aptitudes in other areas. A degree is not the only avenue to success. Extremely valuable and in-demand skills can be learned at private and FET colleges, or through apprenticeships and on-the-job workplace training.

But why study at all? Not everyone is a genius in the vein of Jobs or Zuckerberg: a go-getting attitude and brilliant ideas are important, but most of us are mere mortals who still need to arm ourselves with

knowledge, skills and experience. And first, there are a few harsh realities to take into account.

The first and most obvious one is South Africa’s high unemployment rate, which hovers at around 24% – but which is far higher among the youth. No matter how ambitious you are, without some training to back you up, you run the risk of becoming yet another sad statistic.

Then there’s the sobering fact that even if you matriculate with university entrance, you may not get into university. This is because there are many more school-leavers with university exemption than there are places at the country’s 25 varsities. And your marks may just fall shy of being good enough to snag a place in your chosen course.

Another reality check is that even if you do get into university, the dropout rate of first-year students is alarmingly high.

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The Human Sciences Research Council estimates that only 15% of South African university students who start a degree end up finishing it.

This is due to a number of factors: they run out of money or are unable to secure funding; they can’t cope with the crazy workload (which is often far more demanding than anything they encountered at school); or they realise with a jolt they have chosen the wrong study direction. Some, of course, simply get sucked in by the partying that comes with newfound freedom!

This means that tens of thousands of matriculants have to look at alternative study options.

The upside is that you are almost guaranteed a job if you choose to study or train for a vocation that addresses South Africa’s critical skills shortage.

In order for the country to accelerate its economic growth and create wealth and jobs, it needs more artisans, as well as

certain categories of technical and professional workers.

So, it’s clear university is not the be-all and end-all. Acquiring skills through other means shouldn’t be sneezed at – and, in fact, you may end up earning more money and enjoying more job security than your varsity buddies!

PHOTO: iStock / michaeljung

explore your options

HERE ARE SOME CAREER-FOCUSED ALTERNATIVES TO UNIVERSITY...

PRIVATE COLLEGES There are hundreds of registered private colleges (including private FET colleges) in South Africa, offering tailored diplomas or certificates geared towards producing workplace-ready graduates in specific disciplines.

Independent colleges may be dedicated to, for example, nursing, fitness, business or media studies, while others offer broader and more general fields of study.

Some established brands, like Boston, Damelin, Intec, City Varsity and Midrand Campus, have a solid track record. But beware: there will always be dodgy charlatans who prey on desperate students, taking their money but offering poorquality tuition in return.

When applying at a college, make sure it is accredited

by Umalusi on behalf of the Department of Higher Education and Training. This means that its courses comply with industry standards. Otherwise, you may find yourself in possession of a worthless qualification.

On the plus side, the entrance requirements for private colleges are not as strict as they are for university programmes. A rather large negative is that studying at a private college can cost an arm and a leg – but remember that unlike universities, these institutions are not subsidised by the government.

That’s why it’s important to do your homework in advance.

Check the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) level of your prospective qualification against the requirements of the marketplace. An NQF-registered grading means it is a nationally recognised qualification.

FET COLLEGES/ VOCATIONAL TRAINING Further Education and Training (FET) colleges often get a bad rap; they are widely seen as a last resort for school-leavers.

Vocational and occupational

training bears an unfortunate stigma, not least because some under-performing colleges are giving it a poor reputation.

This perception is not helped by the fact that public, governmentfunded FET colleges (often referred to as technical colleges) are automatically accredited by Umalusi, unlike private colleges, which have to undergo stringent checks before being given the thumbs up.

But this ugly stepsister of the higher education system is gradually turning into a butterfly, as more and more students realise that they can learn valuable skills through job-specific or occupational training. Students at the colleges study towards a certificate in a particular field that makes them highly employable.

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while studying and training towards a qualification. These occupational learnerships combine theoretical and practical components and are aimed at addressing the specific needs of the labour market.

Apprenticeships fall into this category. According to the Careers Portal website (www. thecareersportal.co.za), a trade apprenticeship combines workplace and formal learning, and is based on an agreement between the individual who wants to learn the skill and the employer who needs a skilled worker – so there’s another win-win situation.

An apprenticeship can last between two and four years. You will gain practical skills on-site under the supervision of a qualified tradesman, while also learning the theoretical and technical aspects of the chosen trade.

You earn a salary while learning, you are taught valuable skills in a practical environment, and you are virtually assured of a job at the end of it – not to mention the possibility of earning a good living. So what’s not to love?

‘Appies’ are in hot demand, so this career option is definitely not one to be sneezed at!

PHOTO: iStock / pixdeluxe

can graduate. This means that undergraduate students are placed in an employment situation for a defined period – often working for free, or for a small stipend.

Interning is a win-win solution: the company gets the benefit of your labour, and you gain valuable real-world experience and references to beef up your CV. Chances are, if you knock their socks off they may even ask you to stay!

But even if you aren’t studying, consider approaching a company and offering your labour for peanuts, if not for free. Many employers will appreciate your initiative, and may even be able to finance your salary out of the youth wage subsidy scheme that was recently INTERNSHIPS AND introduced by the government.

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING Alternatively, consider Never diss the importance of good, volunteering at a local charity or old-fashioned on-the-job training church. This will at least give you as an avenue to career success. experience and may open doors Many millennials are dismissive to opportunities you’d never of the concept of starting at the bottom and working your way up the dreamed of. corporate ladder, but this remains the best way to learn the ropes.

APPRENTICESHIPS And it equips you with the practical AND LEARNERSHIPS street smarts to complement your South Africa’s shortage of skilled academic knowledge. tradespeople means that there are Several college and university great opportunities in this field. programmes require you to rack up Some companies offer learnerships, workplace experience before you providing the opportunity to work Most FET colleges are public, but there are also scores of private institutions offering specialised education and skills geared towards a particular career.

Some of these colleges require only a Grade 9 or Grade 10 certificate, making them accessible to the average would-be student.

They also offer vocational instruction to high school-age children who are able to obtain the technical equivalent of a matric.

You may be accepted at a university of technology after completing an FET course, making this a valuable bridge for those who still dream of going to varsity.

COLLEGE CHECKLIST

A college is a college is a college, right? Wrong. Not all colleges are above board. MSC Business College has some tips for prospective students: Is it accredited and can it produce a registration number?

Does it offer diplomas and/or certificates, and at what NQF level?

What are the cost implications, and are there flexible payment options?

Are there any hidden costs, such as study materials and registration fees?

Does the college offer extra-curricular activities to enhance your student life?

What study resources – such as libraries, computers and internet – are available to students?

Does it have a good reputation in the job market?

Check out www.colleges.co.za for a list of accredited and recommended colleges.

Also try the South African Qualifications Authority website for info and careers advice – www.saqa.org.za.

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Golden-voiced South African soprano Pretty Yende is the toast of the global opera scene – but at heart she remains a smalltown girl living out her big dream.

PRETTY AWESOME! PHOTOS: KIM FOX

By Christina Kennedy

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inspirational from the people ed

Last

year, the 29-year-old singer was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in silver by President Jacob Zuma, one of the highest national honours the country can bestow. Yende was recognised for operatic achievements and her positive influence as a pioneer, role model and cultural ambassador.

At the time the Department of Arts and Culture hailed her, saying: “By excelling in the complex and sophisticated genre of opera music, you have transcended barriers. You have proven your worth in a genre of the arts that few African people dare to enter.”

And to think it all started as a bizarre twist of fate in the humble Mpumalanga dorp of Piet Retief – hardly the place you’d picture as the birthplace of future globetrotting singing sensations.

When luck, talent and fate collide So began Yende’s exhilarating rollercoaster ride to worldwide acclaim. She graduated from the Young Artists Academia of La Scala, and went on to perform in several professional productions at the world-renowned Italian opera house.

Her ascent to fame was clearly well on track, thanks to hard work and perseverance. But last year, what was to become the highlight of her career came without warning when she made her debut at the New York Met under the most challenging of conditions.

Yende was called in at the last minute to play the Countess Adèle in Rossini’s Le Comte Ory after another singer fell ill – and despite having only a week to learn the demanding role, her performance

Pretty Yende still pinches herself every now and then as a reminder that her fairytale is real. The young South African soprano has taken the international opera world by storm over the past couple of years, performing to standing ovations at the New York Metropolitan Opera and La Scala in Milan – and her diary is already filling up with bookings until 2020.

In fact, rewind just over a decade to the turn of the millennium and the teenaged Pretty Yende had never even heard of opera music.

It was a chance encounter that sealed her destiny: one day the iconic British Airways television commercial, featuring the exquisite Flower Duet from Leo Delibes’ opera Lakmé, grabbed her attention and refused to let go. Enchanted by this beautiful but unfamiliar music, she immediately set her heart on becoming an opera singer.

“Opera didn’t exist for me before that,” admits Yende, who had grown up being familiar with choral music, but having no exposure to classical music.

Yet something inside her instinctively stirred and responded to opera, and her future path was set from that moment on.

After graduating cum laude from the South African College of Music at the University of Cape Town, she won a number of international opera competitions for young singers. In 2009, she clinched the first prize in every category of the Belvedere competition and later won Placido Domingo’s Operalia vocal talent search.

was hailed as a triumph. The Telegraph praised her “diamanté tone and megawatt smile” and the New York Times noted the “bravos, whistles and whoops” that greeted her curtain call.

This year, she will reprise the role at La Scala (she calls Milan “my second home”), and will return to the New York Met for Mozart’s The Magic Flute. This is in addition to clocking up debuts in Paris, London, Munich, Barcelona, Norway and Los Angeles, with a CD recording also on the cards.

Yes, it’s safe to say that Pretty Yende has cracked the big time – and to think she stumbled on her life’s calling almost by accident!

She therefore has full empathy with her fellow young South Africans who are unsure of what career path to pursue.

“I would advise them to really start looking inside themselves,” she says. “Somehow, we always know what we want to do or what feels right for us to do – yet we get discouraged and lose focus because they seem impossible, or because of the negatives.” ➜

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Trust your instincts

her instincts and allow them to guide her. “After all, we were all born for a greater purpose.”

It is this positive and inspirational attitude that, coupled with her obvious vocal talent, has propelled Yende to where she is today: the darling of the international opera world. But it wasn’t a matter of overnight success: she first had to study and put in the hard yards before reaping the rewards.

She therefore is a strong advocate of tertiary education, believing it is important to shape and hone one’s natural gifts: “After all, knowledge is power. It was not enough for me to have the voice or the talent: it was very foreign to me, like finding a rare special stone that required my full attention and exploration to know how to preserve it and use it to its utmost potential – and that required acquiring a lot of exalted or successful information.”

Even though she considers herself blessed to have discovered her passion, she admits that there were several obstacles that she had to overcome – including being plagued by self-doubt; believing her colleagues to be more talented than she was.

“We are all familiar with the saying: ‘To whom much is given, much is expected’, and so it is in my case,” she reveals.

“One of my biggest hurdles was to accept and believe in my talent. I had to accept that everyone is uniquely talented and special in their own right – and that is a lesson in life as well: learn to love yourself, accept who you are and celebrate and serve the world with your unique talents.”

Yende confides that she has learnt to trust

“No matter how you are, there’s no place like home.”

Giving back to the community Having scaled such dizzying career heights at such a tender age, it would be natural if her head started to swell. But she maintains that she’s still “Pretty from Piet Retief”, adding: “No matter how exalted or successful you are, there’s no place like home. My family is my pride and I’m very, very blessed to have them and still be me.”

In fact, she harbours so much affection for her hometown that she recently launched the Pretty Yende Foundation, which aims to educate young people in and around Piet Retief about classical music.

“My dream is to have at least one child in each village home being able to play a classical instrument,” she says. She also tries to return regularly to South Africa to perform. Last year, she packed out the Montecasino Teatro and Artscape Opera House with two magnificent concerts and, in 2015, she will be starring in Gauteng Opera’s production of Verdi’s Rigoletto.

Home and her Christian faith are what keep her grounded, she says: “It has been important for me to keep my feet planted firmly on the ground, never losing my identity and my purpose – and that has made a huge difference in terms of not allowing external pressure to interfere with my goals.

“My priorities are very clear: I want to make art, and that goal means I need to keep in mind my time and work ethic, knowing that my growth will be in full view in front of millions. ➜

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inspirational from the people ed

Inspiring words from our diva-in-the-making For the sky to shine bright in the night, it’s because each star shines in its own right.

None outshines the other, as they are all unique.

Find your purpose and learn how to serve the world in the best way you can, because that’s what you were destined for.

Your treasure lies within: find it, pursue it and make it a reality.

Stay grounded, no matter how high you fly.

Pretty’s top tips for school-leavers Listen to your instinct – it tells you what you need to do.

Once you find your passion, nurture it, protect it and make it come true.

Only you have seen your vision, make the world see it through your eyes by doing the work and telling them about it.

Nothing is impossible. Don’t let the world scare you away from your dream.

It is your responsibility to make your vision come true, no matter what.

I must always remember that I started this journey for music and music alone, and if I serve well, my relationship with my audience will be healthy.”

When not hitting the high notes with soulstirring arias, Yende enjoys listening to gospel music “to enrich my spirit” and jazz to “relax and recharge my batteries”. She is a firm believer in the unifying power of music. “Music is universal,” she reflects. “It is limitless and it has no boundaries. I am very grateful to be part of this, the greatest gift to humanity.”

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Contact Details Helpline:

0860 111 673 “Please call me” / SMS Service:

072 204 5056 Email: help@careerhelp.org.za Careers website:

www.careerhelp.org.za Twitter:

@NQFcareerhelp Facebook:

www.facebook.com/careerhelp

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What is the NQF AND Career Advice Services Helpline?

How does the public benefit from the helpline’s services?

Making a career choice is one of the most important decisions a learner faces; it is therefore imperative that learners receive relevant information and useful advice to assist them in this process.

Members of the public benefit from the NQF and Career Advice Helpline in that they can access a wide variety of advice, including information on post-school options, genuine qualifications, career options, financial assistance for study, scarce and critical skills, learnerships and other opportunities, as well as options available to less privileged learners. This information is made available in all the African languages.

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is a body set up by Parliament to oversee the further development and implementation of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Under the leadership of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), SAQA has established the NQF and Career Advice Helpline.

The NQF and Career Advice Helpline was designed as a national, comprehensive, multichannel service to bring information and advice to South Africans, particularly those with little or no access to information on gaining qualifications and choosing careers.

The aim is to equip learners with information that will help them decide on work and study paths, enabling them to increase their employability and manage their own career development. Citizens of South Africa – irrespective of their race, gender, background, geographical location or religion, can access the NQF and Career Advice Helpline through various available channels.

WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WHEN DECIDING ON A CAREER? When deciding on a career, it is important to know which qualification(s) you need to obtain in order to follow that path.

Choose a qualification that is registered on the NQF and that is offered by an education and training institution registered with the relevant authorities.

Your qualification will be recognised by employers and other institutions, should you need to study further. You should also find out which qualifications are in demand in the world of work.

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SAQA and DHET have developed the National Career Advice Portal (NCAP), an online portal that provides information on occupations and learning pathways.

It also offers a Learning Directory that gives contact and geographic location details of public education and training institutions and the quality-assured qualifications they offer.

The portal also has an e-Portfolio which guides learners in developing their own career action plans.

Tell us a bit more about the helpline’s channels?

The NQF and Career Advice Helpline comprises telephonic, email, SMS messaging, postal and walk-in services.

Qualified career advisors deal with all enquiries that come through these channels. Advisors also go out to career exhibitions, particularly in areas where there is little or no access to information on qualifications and careers. The career advisors conduct workshops with life orientation educators and officials in other career advice organisations/centres.

The NQF and Career Advice Helpline uses social media – namely Facebook and Twitter, a mobi-site and website, as well as publications and weekly African languages radio programmes – to reach the public as widely as possible.

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Putting the into funding

FUN

The late Nelson Mandela was bang on the money

when he said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” The reality is that in today’s competitive job market, simply having a matric pass will not open many doors for you. That’s why studying further is strongly recommended – and the good news is that tertiary education need not be just for the moneyed elite.

After the initial jubilation of obtaining a matric certificate – and, even better, university exemption – wears off, would-be students need to come back down to earth and start thinking seriously about their future. In fact, they should have started mulling over their career options and where they’d like to study at least a year before sitting down to write those dreaded matric final exams.

But one shadow often looms large over newly matriculated teens with big dreams and small bank balances: how to fund their studies.

PHOTO: iStock / CatLane

Your dream degree or diploma beckons, but money’s too tight to mention. Don’t despair – if you’re on the ball, it’s easy to score financial aid.

The bad news is that each year of undergraduate study at a subsidised public university can set students (and parents) back around R30 000, and even more if you’re swotting at a private college or want to go into a field such as medicine or engineering. And that’s before you even think about forking out for accommodation, transport, textbooks and socialising!

The good news is that financial help is available from a variety of sources. But there’s a catch: you have to be smart, sussed and on the ball to be the early bird that catches the funding worm.

So, instead of feeling sorry for yourself, thinking that empty pockets will put the brakes on your brilliant career, get out there and start applying for any and every bursary, scholarship and loan you can sniff out! The earlier you get your application in (you can even submit your Grade 11 results), the better the chance you’ll have of snagging a grant. ➜

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Depending on the type of financial aid you receive, you may be required to repay it – either directly or by working for your benefactor for a certain period once you’ve finished your degree. So you need to ask yourself upfront whether you have the staying power to pursue a particular study path right through to the end, because if you don’t, you’ll still be liable for those fees. And lets face it, there’s really nothing worse than being saddled with tuition debt for abandoned studies!

Vocational guidance counsellors may tell you one thing, but before you plunge right in, ask yourself whether your chosen path is ideally suited to your abilities and personality. In reality, will you be able to find a job at the end of it? What are the scarce skills that are in demand in the marketplace?

These days the internet is awash with institutions, government departments and companies that offer financial assistance to worthy students. So start enquiring as soon as possible, and be sure to follow up on all your applications.

Above all, don’t get despondent if you receive letters of rejection. Repeat this mantra: try, try and try again. Your persistence and optimism will inevitably pay off!

you are an artisan with a trade, there’s only a 12% chance that you won’t find work. You do the maths: it’s in your best interests to pursue higher education.

BEAT THE BURSARY BLUES • A bursary is a study grant that you don’t need to repay – unless you fail, that is. Bear in mind there may be a number of conditions attached, such as volunteer work or maintaining a certain standard of academic performance.

• A bursary is based more on financial need, while a scholarship is usually merit-based (artistic, academic or sporting ability). But that doesn’t mean you can get away with low marks when applying for bursaries – strive for excellence to propel yourself to the front of the funding queue.

• It’s important to take the correct subjects in Grade 10 that will help ease your way into your dream career. Don’t just take the easiest subjects that you’re most likely to pass – you may come to regret it!

REALITY CHECK • In 2013, South Africa’s matric pass rate was 78.2%. A total of 30.6% qualified to study at university. However, there has been much debate about the value and quality of a matric pass, and many tertiary institutions now require candidates to write an admission test before they’ll even consider you.

• Remember: A matric pass with university exemption does NOT guarantee you a place at a university.

Even though two new universities, in Nelspruit and Kimberley, opened their doors in 2014, South Africa still does not have enough places at its public universities to cater for the demand from matriculants eligible to study towards bachelor’s degrees. We have seen deadly stampedes in the past, with students desperate to register for any available course.

• The National Treasury estimates that a mindboggling 42% of economically active South Africans under the age of 30 are unemployed. That’s almost half the country’s youth population. On the flip side of the coin, economist Mike Schussler points out only 7% of degree graduates are unemployed. And – here’s an interesting fact that could influence your study path if you aren’t academically inclined – if

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED Be wary of bogus fly-by-night colleges that exploit matriculants who are desperate to study somewhere – anywhere. Before you hand over any cash, check with the Department of Education that the institution is registered and double-check the quality of their qualifications.

• Ascertain what the minimum admission requirements are for the degree, diploma or certificate course you want to follow. Make sure you don’t merely meet those minimum standards, but exceed them. Popular courses are usually oversubscribed and you could be denied a place, even if you qualify for it on paper.

• Find out what marks are required to qualify for a bursary. Again, strive to surpass those minimum standards. The better you fare academically, the better your chances of finding funding.

• Attend the open days of universities and colleges, and gather information on all the funding options.

➜

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WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS Tertiary Institutions • Apply for a bursary at the university or college where you intend to study. Visit, email or phone their financial aid office well in advance to find out more.

• Remember that many of these bursaries are only available to South African citizens.

• Once you are enrolled at university, you may also qualify for an academic merit award based on your results during your first year of study.

• Some universities also offer partial bursaries for art, cultural, sporting or leadership achievements at school.

?

• Invest in a copy of The Bursary Register (it costs about R120). This invaluable booklet will show you how to compile a CV, apply for bursaries, scholarships and loans, and advise on how to conduct yourself at an interview. Find it at academic bookshops, libraries and tertiary institutions’ financial aid offices.

The Private Sector • Many companies – particularly those operating in the scarce and critical skills sectors, such as mining and engineering – award contract bursaries, usually with conditions such as: o You have to pass your subjects – otherwise you must pay for the courses you fail; o You will be contractually bound to work at the company for a specified number of years after completing your studies; and o You will be required to study in a field specified by the company (e.g. BCom Accounting, BSc Engineering).

• Companies that award bursaries include: Spoornet, Transnet, Sasol, Absa, Anglo American, Gold Fields, Anglo Platinum, Eskom, Sasol, Iscor, De Beers, Edgars, SA Breweries, Harmony, Mintek, AECI, Engen, Group 5, Murray & Roberts, PPC, the SA Institute of Race Relations, the SA Weather Service, Vodacom and Old Mutual.

• Eduloan is a private company that provides loans to students whose parents are permanently employed.

Visit website: www.eduloan.co.za.

Government Institutions • Approach your local municipality, or the provincial or national government department relevant to your studies – they often have a number of bursaries up for grabs.

PHOTO: iStock / izusek

• Apply early! The closing date for some bursary schemes can be as early as 12 months in advance of you starting your studies.

• Make sure your CV is a knockout! First impressions count. It must look professional and neat, and be error-free. Motivate strongly why you should be considered for a bursary.

• Have certified copies made of your results (Grade 11 and/or prelims) and your ID document. This can be done for free at your local police station.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) • If you’re considering taking out a loan, the Department of Higher Education’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a good place to start. NSFAS is a statutory body that awards study loans and bursaries to financially needy and academically competent South African undergraduate students.

• In 2014, NSFAS budgeted over R9 billion for more than 430 000 students at public universities and FET colleges. Loans range from R2 000 to R30 000 and cover tuition, accommodation, transport, food and textbook costs. ➜ post matric 2014 // 39

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• The scheme offers study loans at a low interest rate without the need for surety, and you only have to begin your repayments once you are earning R30 000 a year. You do, however, need to prove that your household income is less than R122 000 a year.

• Loans are awarded for studies at public universities or further education and training (FET) colleges, but not private colleges.

• If you pass all your courses, you could get 40% of your NSFAS loan converted into a bursary. But if you fail or drop out, you’ll have to repay every cent.

• NSFAS also administers bursary funds for aspiring teachers, social workers and those studying in scarce-skills disciplines, and FET college bursaries.

• Contact NSFAS at 0860 NSFAS (067327) or 021 763 3232, SMS 32261 or write to Private Bag X1, Plumstead 7801, South Africa. You can also email info@nsfas.org.za or visit www.nsfas.org.za.

Study While you Work • If you’re already working, why not find out if your employer can pay for your studies? Larger companies have to pay a skills development

levy, which goes to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the Skills Development Fund. These funds are made available to finance the training of a company’s own employees.

• Employers can claim a SARS refund if they train their workers. So, if you want to study through your company – as long as it is related to your job – you could get your tuition paid by your boss. Wouldn’t that be cool?

Bank Loans • The major banks all offer student loans, to be repaid with interest once you’ve completed your studies.

You will need someone to sign surety for you.

• South African citizens and non-South Africans with valid study permits can apply for these study loans, which can be taken out for studies at a university, FET college or SA Qualifications Authority-accredited private college.

• Contact the big four banks: Standard Bank: 0860 123 000, www.standardbank.co.za First National Bank: 0860 100 762, www.fnb.co.za ABSA: 0860 100 372, www.absa.co.za Nedbank: 0860 555 111, www.nedbank.co.za

HANDY LINKS www.nsfas.org.za www.thecareersportal.co.za www.gal.co.za http://sa.gostudy.info or www.gostudy.mobi www.studentbrands.co.za www.hcifoundation.co.za/bursary

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FIND YOUR CAREER

PHOTO: iStock / Ondine32

www.postmatric.co.za

Loads of career profiles to choose from, including: >>inspirational interviews >>what qualifications you’ll need >>where you can study >>how to secure funding >>what subjects you’ll need

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accupuncturist alternative medicine

fix will be disappointed. Those who stick with the treatment have a better chance at success.

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?

Yu-Kuan Lin

SOUTH AFRICA LICENSED ACUPUNCTURIST AND HERBALIST DR LIN ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

My family is well known in medicine and has been for generations. My father encouraged me to study acupuncture and Chinese medicine when I was young. As the son of one of the most respected acupuncturists in Cape Town, I have been able to learn a lot of unique and different acupuncture theories and techniques.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I like to see people happy and living without pain.

When I help someone with a problem, I feel happy.

After more than a decade of practicing acupuncture and Chinese medicine, I am still thrilled and amazed with the outstanding results of these healing arts.

ARE THERE ASPECTS OF YOUR WORK THAT YOU DON’T ENJOY?

Sometimes people expect miracles from one treatment. Miracles can happen, there is no doubt about this, but, in most cases, repetitive treatments are necessary. The body takes time to adjust itself to new patterns and new ways of being. Generally speaking, the longer the condition has been present, the longer it will take to adjust. People can be impatient, with far too many constantly jumping from one therapy to the next without giving any of them a chance to work. Those who expect a quick

In South Africa, most people only consider having acupuncture when they have tried everything else and failed. A fear of needles discourages people from trying acupuncture.

YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT TO DATE?

Gaining the trust of my patients is an important component of building my practice. Patients who trust me will not hesitate to rebook appointments, or come back to me when some other health problem arises. Also, patients who trust me are willing to refer their friends and family members to me because they’re confident that their loved ones will trust me too. That’s why the Dr Lin Acupuncture Clinic has lasted and has provided healthcare to the communities of Cape Town for over 25 years.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

My goal is to free my patients from symptoms and help them stay well; for them to be symptom free and even medication free.

IN YOUR LINE OF WORK, IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Chinese medicine and acupuncture are both based on theoretical foundations and clinical experience. Accumulated experience helps practitioners to be more sensitive and observant – able to read symptoms and identify problems. It’s also important to keep up to date with the latest medical findings and research.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Knowledge, experience and compassion.

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media

Lailah Orrie

DOCUMENTARY DIRECTOR AND PRODUCER FREELANCE

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS JOB?

I love telling stories, and in South Africa we are surrounded by people and places with such a rich past, present and future.

I have always found the world around me more compelling than anything you can make up or read about in a book. There are so many important stories out there that can help us to make sense of the world around us and I want to tell them through the audio-visual medium. With every programme I make, I can offer the audience a fresh perspective on the world.

As a documentary film-maker, I essentially document the world around me, but I want to do more than simply reflect reality, I want my work to provoke a response.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I studied Journalism at Rhodes University, and graduated in 2002 with a television specialisation. Since then I have completed many short courses, learning to use new editing software and camera equipment.

When you work in the media, you need to keep abreast of new technology, so further education is recommended. I am currently completing my Master’s in Media Theory and Practice at the University of Cape Town, Centre for Film and Media Studies.

I LOVE THE VARIETY

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

Every day is different, depending on where we are in the production cycle. I could be conducting research into a story, or planning a shoot – which involves everything from drawing up the budget to booking equipment.

Other days are spent cutting the programme in the edit suite. The best days for me are shoot days.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

I love the variety. Sometimes I find myself working in the middle of a bustling city, then when I am making wildlife documentaries, I get to spend time in the bush, close to nature. In my career I have lots of opportunity to travel and I explore and experience new things all the time. I also love the creative process of taking an idea and transforming it into something real.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

The hours are long and you work very hard. It is a high-pressure environment and although I love working hard, it uses up a lot of physical and mental resources, meaning it can be very draining over time. It is advisable to take time off regularly to recover.

HURDLES YOU HAVE OVERCOME?

It is difficult breaking into the industry. There is a lot of competition for jobs. Networking

is essential, especially if you are freelance. Another hurdle is finding funding for your projects, which can come from a production company, TV channel, a foundation or private investor.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT SO FAR?

Working on a documentary series called Generation Free, which tells the stories of 13 inspiring young South Africans who are doing their bit to better our country. I directed nine episodes, and meeting these amazing young people really shook my perceptions about SA. I can truly say that working on this series has changed my view of the world.

EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING? Getting a qualification is very important and I would say it is a great starting point because you learn all the theory behind why you are doing the things you do.

But you will never learn as much as you can on the job. Experience is what is going to make you great at what you do. In our industry, many people will even work for free when they start out.

ADVICE TO YOUNG FILM-MAKERS

Get as much experience as you can, work hard and work smart, and never give up on your dreams.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Capture life’s stories!

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financial

HOW DID YOU END UP PURSUING STOCKBROKING AS A CAREER?

After spending the whole of 2010 without a job, I decided to apply for the Financial Markets Honours programme at the University of Fort Hare – a programme sponsored

by BANKSETA. Throughout the programme, I was intrigued by how the stock market functions and this fuelled my desire to work in this fascinating industry. I was then fortunate enough to be offered employment at Legae Securities (a stockbroking firm and member of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange).

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND HOW WAS IT FUNDED? The Bachelor of Commerce Honours Financial Markets programme included four of the crucial industries of the financial system: Equity Markets, Bond Markets, Derivatives Markets and Foreign Exchange Markets.

BANKSETA fully sponsored my Financial Markets Honours.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

Yes, of course! The type of work I do requires someone who is honest and trustworthy, dedicated and focused. Most importantly you have to be able to work with people, and to be able to establish and maintain long-term relationships with clients.

EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING? Experience plays a pivotal role in stockbroking. Of course training builds one’s mental capacity, but work experience exposes one to real life situations, and how best to deal with them.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

My day starts off with reading current news to prepare for the morning GRADUATE meeting. We discuss the STOCKBROKER TRAINEE previous trading day, and LEGAE SECURITIES how we think the South African stock market will perform on a particular day.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT Every day I ensure that my OF YOUR CAREER IN trading system and other STOCKBROKING TO DATE? systems are up and running Every day brings its own special before the market opens at highlights, but what was a 9am. I then receive and execute memorable moment for me thus buy or sell orders on the system far was purchasing shares for a for clients throughout the day. client worth R14 million.

In executing the buy orders, I have to ensure that the clients WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR have sufficient funds in their THE FUTURE? accounts. For sell orders, I check I want to obtain a PhD, CFA Level if the clients have shares and 3 and Stockbroking Licence, and whether the shares are ready to open a consulting company. I to be sold. I communicate with also want to be a lecturer at the clients frequently to provide University of Fort Hare in the advice, resolve any queries they BANKSETA Financial Markets may have, and to update them Honours programme. Lastly, I on their holdings. want to be a motivational speaker, and play a role in South Africa’s WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST youth development initiative.

Luzuko Mrwebo

ABOUT YOUR JOB?

The various challenges that come WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE with the job are what fascinate TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN me the most. You are required YOUR CAREER? to be quick and consistently Work hard, be willing to accurate. Every day is different learn, avoid arguments, don’t from the previous day. compromise your values, be humble and don’t undermine WHICH ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST other people’s views.

ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

Dealing with difficult clients that do not understand that we are required to follow procedures.

DESCRIBE YOU JOB IN THREE WORDS Exhilarating, fun and challenging!

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accupuncturist hospitality

Kevin Joseph

EXECUTIVE CHEF OYSTER BOX HOTEL

SSION

BEING A CHEF IS ABOUT PA

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Enrol with Ekurhuleni West College National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4

Education and Development Finance, Economics and Accounting Hospitality Management Marketing Office Administration Tourism Transport and Logistics Civil Engineering and Building Construction Electrical Infrastructure Construction Engineering and Related Design Information Technology and Computer Science Mechatronics Administration requirements for NC (V) Level 2: A pass in Grade 9, NQF Level 1, ABET Level 4 or higher qualification Duration: Full year programmes at each Level of Study

Report 191 (Nated) N4 - N6 Business Studies

Business Management Financial Management Human Resources Management Management Assistant Marketing Management

N3 - N6 Engineering Studies

Avionics Aircraft Maintenance/Aircraft Metalwork Electrical Engineering Electronic Engineering Mechanical Engineering

Part Time Studies

Supervisory Management Admission requirements: National Senior Certificate Grade 12 or National N3 Certificate

Occupational Programmes

Hairdressing Beauty Therapy Food and Beverages Services Computer Technician (A+) Networking Technician (N+) e-Learner International Computer Driving Licence (ICLD)

Ekurhuleni West College.indd 1

2014/05/19 10:17 AM

Sail Due South, our Langebaan base, is an internationally accredited YA MCA training academy.

COURSES OFFERED YA Competent Crew YA ower oat YA Day Skippers YA Coastal Skippers ap Year ackages YA Yachtmaster ffshore YA Yachtmaster cean and more

JOIN THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING AND SUPER YACHTING INDUSTRY TRAVEL THE WORLD EARN $£€ Sea Sailing Adventure, our Durban-based academy, offers a range of courses and packages geared towards the international yachting industry.

COURSES OFFERED Yacht and Intro to Yachting Steward ess Course Mileage uilding Yachtmaster Career ackages Career uidance and more Contact: 072 617 6477 | 031 337 3570 www.seasailingadventure.co.za shane@seasailingadventure.co.za

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craftmanship

Ivo Sola

SELF-EMPLOYED WELDER SOLA METAL FABRICATORS

YOU NEED LITTLE INVESTMENT, BUT YOU

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administration

Christo A Scheepers CHIEF CLINIC ADMINISTRATOR

TIBB MEDICAL CENTRES OF THE IBN SINA INSTITUTE OF TIBB

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accupuncturist geology

Eugene Bergh

(ASSISTANT) CURATOR OF INVERTEBRATE PALAEONTOLOGY & GEOLOGY IZIKO SOUTH AFRICAN MUSEUM

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marketing

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

From the time I was a kid, I have been fascinated with the world of advertising and media. As I grew older, I realised my creative mind and my enthusiasm to know more about human and consumer behaviour pulled me towards the field of marketing.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did a DCC Diploma in Marketing Management at Damelin Correspondence College.

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS BEST SUITED TO WORKING IN MARKETING?

A forward thinker; an individual that is perceptive, objective and assertive. A brand specialist needs to have good analytical skills, be a people person and be passionate about the brand they represent. They should also be an excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Yes, you have to be able to apply theory and to adapt to each organisation’s operations and policies.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I monitor market trends and oversee advertising and marketing activities to ensure the right message is delivered for the products or services my company handles. I also regularly attend product launches, conferences and exhibitions.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

It’s fast paced and I enjoy the exciting projects I get to work with daily. There’s never a dull moment!

Lorna Williams

JUNIOR BRAND MANAGER LEMONBUZZ BRAND ACTIVATION GROUP

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR? Getting to work with a host of celebrities, and the opportunity to work with brands that I am proud to be associated with – brands that are now entrenched in the market, partly due to my contribution.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To move up to an executive level. Eventually I hope to open my own consultancy.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN MARKETING?

You have to be willing to start from the bottom, and be prepared to work under pressure and to extremely tight deadlines. You have to be instinctive and be able to handle each challenge individually. You can’t keep on using the same winning formula, you need to constantly change your strategy. It is essential that you adopt out-the-box thinking.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Unpredictable • Dynamic • Rewarding

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accupuncturist dietetics

Dr Kath Megaw

WHY PAEDIATRIC DIETETICS?

PAEDIATRIC DIETITIAN

I wanted to study something in the medical field and wanted to work with children. I had a great love for nutrition as well as clinical (hospital) work. So becoming a clinical paediatric dietitian seemed like the perfect combination. I loved the idea of working with parents to improve the health of their families, and especially children. I feel dietetics is a very proactive and preventative form of medicine. It also plays a critical role in special needs children and ill children.

private hospitals that I look after and do ward rounds. This may include neonatal ward rounds with a neonatologist (a specialist doctor who looks after tiny, sick babies and premature infants).

It may include going around the paediatric heart ward or the paediatric ICU. My job is to make sure these babies and children are getting the best nutrition in the safest way possible.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO?

There are wonderful dietitians working in government and it is a very fulfilling place to work, especially in paediatrics. However these days I run a private practice, which means I don’t work in government hospitals anymore. My day generally starts with private practice patients in my rooms and we discuss diets and meal plans. My paediatric patients vary and some of the issues I deal with in a day can be anything from weight loss, allergies, constipation, fussy eating, weaning and breastfeeding advice to children with cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome and epilepsy. I then go to the

I LOVE MY HOSPITAL

I studied a BSc in Dietetics.

I completed a postgraduate diploma and honours, which then enabled me to become qualified as a clinical dietitian. In South Africa you can’t specialise as a paediatric dietitian so I had to study overseas for this and did a Diploma in Paediatric Dietetics, which was another two years’ part-time study and practical experience. This was the best thing I could’ve done. I gained so much knowledge of paediatrics.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

I love my hospital work and special needs babies and children; I love the challenge of working out a medical diet WORK and then seeing the amazing results. I work with a special diet called the ketogenic

AND SPECIAL NEEDS BABIES

diet and we use it for children who have epilepsy. When some of these children go on this diet they stop having seizures. These are the most fulfilling moments.

HURDLES YOU HAVE OVERCOME?

Overcoming the fact that in SA we don’t specialise in areas of dietetics, so everyone does everything. I firmly believe in specialisation, as it benefits the patient. So, to be accepted as a dietitian that only handles paediatrics has been a challenge, but has turned out very positively.

EXPERIENCE OR TRAINING?

You need a large amount of both.

I’ve learnt more about children by having my own kids than I ever did in any textbook.

WHICH TRAITS ARE REQUIRED?

You need to be a lover of children, but also know how to work with adults (parents), so confidence is key; attention to detail is important as special needs diets need to be calculated accurately; and, a thirst for knowledge and willingness to change, as in the world of nutrition/medicine new information comes out all the time, so you need to adapt.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Fulfilling • Challenging • Special

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Professional Child Care College Do you have a love of children? Would you like a career that allows you to travel the world?

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sports coaching

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I was self-employed in a totally different industry, namely catering. I saw an opportunity to be involved with a profession that stirred a passion within me.

I have not looked back and my passion for swimming has only grown stronger.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I am a qualified Level 1 swimming coach, swimming teacher and baby swimming facilitator. I underwent courses presented by the Professional Baby Swimming Teacher’s Association and Swim South Africa, as well as Aqua Aerobics presented by Elsa Storm Professional Aquatic Association of South Africa.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

enjoy seeing the children progress through the different levels and observing how their confidence BUSINESS OWNER, SWIMMING is boosted as they COACH & SWIMMING TEACHER achieve and grow RIPPLE EFFECT SWIM SCHOOL stronger in their swimming practice.

Swimming incorporates many swimming would be the focus; different areas of growth and reaching schools in the area that development that are often not do not have swimming pools; seen or thought about initially. working towards developing swimming as a sport of choice in WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? South Africa.

I don’t like the pressure that is placed on children to perform; EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING? either by parents, swimming Experience plays a very important teachers or coaches. I believe role, as you learn that each in working at the child’s pace individual is different and theory to make them comfortable in in practice is affected by this. water and to encourage them to Different folks = different strokes! enjoy swimming for recreation, In saying that, the theory, if competitively or for fitness. applied correctly, is effective.

Carol Esterhuizen

I facilitate baby swimming group lessons with parents and their babies. In the afternoons I hold private lessons for older children (age 3 to 5), either at my home-based pool or at a school in my area. I also coach swimming to children in grades 1 to 6 at the same school. Between these lessons I manage my business, dealing with clients, administration and different aspects that are related to the running of my business.

HURDLES YOU’VE OVERCOME?

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR?

I am very passionate about swimming in general, but mostly

There are many swimming schools in my area and it has taken considerable time to build a reputation of being the school of choice, mainly through word of mouth from parent to parent. This has been the strongest advertising tool. Finding effective marketing tools that suit my business without the expertise required is a challenge; breaking mindsets of ‘end result’ versus long-term enjoyment of swimming.

Developing a vision for an aquatic centre, where developmental

WHAT MAKES A GOOD TEACHER?

You need to have leadership capabilities, as well as a nurturing personality. You also need patience, and the ability to motivate and connect with children at their level of understanding and perseverance.

ANY ADVICE FOR WANNABE SWIMMING COACHES?

Develop an understanding of the skill of swimming (swim yourself), obtain professional qualifications, and do ongoing training.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Just keep swimming!

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tourism

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

Riaan Renke

TOUR OPERATOR/CULTURAL GUIDE WINE FLIES

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I decided to follow my passion and my hobby... wine. I had come to a point at which working for the corporate industry was taking its toll on my family life, physical health and mental well-being.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE?

We basically source unique destinations with a cultural significance to expose to both local and international travellers alike; somewhere they would never see on the commercial tourist route. In this way we support small family establishments that employ and source products from the local community.

Local is lekker.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO, AND WHERE?

To become a qualified tour guide you have to complete a THETA-approved tour guide course (several establishments offer this). My training with regards to wine was a result of self-exploration. I’ve been involved in various industries over the years, from hospitality to construction, and they have all aided in building experience, which I benefit from immensely in my day-to-day operations.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

On tour days, I collect guests and take them around the winelands, providing quite a bit of education regarding the various wines, their origin, and what is involved at the vineyards and cellar – all presented in an informative, but not too stuffy or pretentious way.

Office days vary from dealing with bookings, to quoting on personalised tours, or marketing and product development. I enjoy the diversity.

Job satisfaction, creating an awareness and appreciation of wine, developing products that are unique, and providing travellers with a different perspective on our country and it’s diverse culture.

I also enjoy assisting in community development and ‘giving back’ where I can.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

Self-righteous people that think the world owes them a huge favour!

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? Converting sweet rosé drinkers and teaching them to appreciate a quality red (seriously!), being offered partnership in a small company, and being given the opportunity to capitalise on my skills and experience and spearhead a new approach to tourism.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

To make my own wine. To own a property where we can become self-sustainable. To further involve the local community through upliftment projects. Steering clear of the rat race!

ARE THERE CERTAIN TRAITS ONE SHOULD POSSESS?

In this position you have to be a people person, which no training can provide for because it’s a personality thing. You also need foresight, to be able to identify problem areas before they arise, to think on your feet and, of course, to have a love for travel.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT?

Always be honest; be willing to learn from others; know that the more you put in, the more rewarding it becomes; if you have ideas, explore them, but don’t stay a dreamer – act on them and make it happen!

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auto-repairs

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS UNUSUAL PROFESSION?

Because of my liking for arts and crafts, which was a subject I enjoyed in high school. During holidays I worked for the family business to see if I had a passion for spray-painting. I took a liking to it and, after school, I decided to do my apprenticeship. I’ve never regretted a moment of it – this is my passion and it still totally appeals to me.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I completed my Level 1 in 2012, and went on to do my Level 2 in 2013. During my apprenticeship I also did numerous advanced courses and entered the WorldSkills Competition Leipzig 2013, where I came second at the national competition level. I also competed at the 2013 Automechanika Open spray-painting competition (competing with qualified artisans) and came second in that competition too.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF WORK?

Yes, you need to be a go-getter and have a passion for what you are doing. In this field of work you need to take chances and be innovative – there is no room for hesitation. You need to be open-minded and think outside the box. There are rules, but the trade also allows you to explore and push the boundaries.

I am actually doing something that is still seen as a ‘man’s job’ and, although I sometimes work over weekends if I am required to, during most weekends and in my spare time I still consider myself to be very ‘lady-like’!

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I start at 7.30am, doing the stocktaking in the paint shop and ordering for the week. I handle all the orders from different companies. Then I mask one or two cars. If my gunwoman asks me to paint, I grab a gun without hesitation and start painting. I see every task as a challenge and this excites me.

Monique Swanepoel APPRENTICESHIP IN SPRAY-PAINTING

HJ BOSCH & SONS PANELBEATERS

WHICH ASPECTS OF THE WORK ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

If I could choose to not do something required in my work, it would be preparation – called flatting. I do not like the dust that’s created at all. I can handle the paint on my hands and clothes because I can wash it off, but the dust is irritating. Maybe it’s because I respect my body; I’m a non-smoker and I despise the intake of any foreign bodies.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

In my future I would like to see myself managing a paint shop, or becoming a technician. As a hobby, I would like to improve on my airbrushing skills.

ADVICE FOR WANNABE SPRAY-PAINTERS?

I can recommend spray-painting to anybody who fits the profile, and advise those starting with spray-painting as a career to be open-minded, to be honest in everything they do, not to take short cuts and to learn as much they can. My motto is “learn from the comments of other people, they see what you don’t see”. This is important in life and in spray-painting too, after all it is an art form and the quality of the job is based on durability and finish. Be an enthusiastic apprentice, have fun and keep on learning, so that one day you can be a good journeyman or journeywoman!

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accupuncturist audiology

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I chose to become an audiologist because I wanted to help people and make a difference not only in their lives, but in their quality of life.

WHAT DOES AN AUDIOLOGIST DO?

I assess and diagnose patients with hearing loss. I also provide rehabilitation through counselling and fitting of hearing aids. A large part of an audiologist’s work is to improve the communication in patient’s lives by assisting them with hearing better. Detection of hearing loss in newborn babies is another part of my work.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?

I obtained a BSc in Audiology with honours at the University of Cape Town. The degree took four years.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I perform diagnostic audiological assessments of various age groups. If they are hearing aid candidates, I provide them with counselling and take earmould impressions for hearing aids. I also see patients for their hearing aid fittings and follow-ups. I am the only person in the department and therefore have administrative duties to fulfil as well. We are currently awaiting our newborn hearing screening machine.

Once that comes I will also start running a newborn hearing screening programme.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I love working with people. The best thing about my job is doing hearing aid fittings and seeing the patients’ faces light up when they receive their hearing aids. Those first moments when they can hear better than they did before are priceless. That’s when I know I have made an impact on someone’s life and have improved their communication.

Veena Naran

AUDIOLOGIST DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, NEW SOMERSET HOSPITAL

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Starting an outreach programme on the West Coast. I love being part of making my services more accessible to our outlying patients.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

To continue studying and to obtain my Master’s.

IN YOUR LINE OF WORK, IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Definitely! Experience assists you in being better equipped for both the assessment and the rehabilitation process.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK, OR CERTAIN TRAITS ONE SHOULD HAVE (OR NOT HAVE)?

Yes! Being in this profession, one needs to be able to demonstrate patience – this is vital in order to work with the hearing impaired population.

Working with children and the elderly requires one to have a decent sense of humour too! Being a sociable person certainly helps, as patients need to feel that you are trustworthy and approachable.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN AUDIOLOGY?

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU DON’T LIKE?

The administration, and the battle to procure goods can also be very challenging sometimes.

If you are passionate about helping people, and enjoy technical work too, then this may be the career for you. Always remember that the patient deserves to be treated with the utmost respect! Patience, patience and more patience.

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Many administrative fights!

Meaningful • Rewarding • Technical

64 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/20 1:47 PM

University of Pretoria.indd 1

2014/04/17 10:29 AM

mining/van schalk.indd 1

2014/05/12 1:38 PM

radio broadcasting

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN RADIO BROADCASTING?

I love entertaining and conversing with people. It is my aim to share what I have learnt and experienced in life, with the intention of uplifting others.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did an introduction to Radio Broadcasting course through INTEC College.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF WORK?

Yes – an outgoing individual who is as much a talker as they are a good listener. A person invested in serving the community.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Saziso Dlamini

COMMUNITY RADIO PRESENTER & PRODUCER RADIO KHWEZI (90.5 & 107.7 FM)

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

I started off as a technician, and then joined the Presenter’s Team as the Drive Home Show presenter and Night-Tme presenter. Other proud achievements include my winnings at the MTN Radio Awards: 2012 – Best Night-Time Presenter and Best Night-Time Show; and, 2013 – Best Drive Home Show Presenter and Best News and Actuality Show!

Yes, definitely. There has to be a balance between both formal training and proper hands-on experience in the industry.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN RADIO?

My day starts off with doing relevant research, contacting the guests featuring in upcoming shows, and then compiling my show in preparation to go on air from 4pm to 11pm.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

I enjoy and get fulfilment from interacting with my listeners and making a difference in their lives.

ANYTHING YOU’RE NOT ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

Honestly, I am enthusiastic about everything, so I can’t really say!

I aspire to have an entertainment company all of my very own.

My message to aspiring radio presenters is: to always be hopeful and never give up in life because every hurdle is just a learning curve. I almost gave up my dream, but through the grace of God, my studies and solid work experience, I was given an opportunity to build knowledge and skills, and went on to become one of the top community radio presenters in the country! I would encourage young adults to further their studies through INTEC College, who offer convenient studies with realistic payment plans.

WHICH THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR JOB BEST?

Exciting • Stimulating • Fulfilling

post matric 2014 // 67

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2014/05/20 1:48 PM

InternalAudit.indd 1

2014/03/24 1:59 PM

internal auditing

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE AN INTERNAL AUDITOR?

This is the one job that exposes you to every single aspect of an organisation, and gives you the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. The internal auditor plays a major role in the organisation’s wellbeing, making a significant difference as an assurance provider and trusted advisor to management.

The position is also an excellent training ground for those wishing to move into executive positions.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INTERNAL AND AN EXTERNAL AUDITOR?

External audit is primarily a financial discipline with a statutory obligation. These auditors’ main function is to give assurance that the organisation’s financial position is what management has reported it is by looking at whether the financial statements are a true reflection of the organisation’s financial position. Internal auditors have a much broader scope. Although we also look at the organisation’s finance area, this is just a fraction of our function; internal auditors focus on every area in the organisation, from HR to supply chain management and procurement to IT. We also focus on strategy; risk management; fraud, ethics, compliance, sustainability, environmental and other risks; as well as governance and performance of the organisation’s core business. The job starts with understanding the risks the organisation is facing

and looking at whether there are adequate controls in place to mitigate those risks.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

Shirley Machaba

I love being in a position to provide advice to NATIONAL ENTERPRISE RISK management on best AND INTERNAL AUDIT LEADER practice as well as on PWC critical changes within the profession, industries and sectors. This is a multiis the standard setter of the dimensional discipline. It is an career path for internal auditors. exciting job with a lot of variety Once you have begun working, and no room for boredom. enrol in the IIA SA’s Professional Training Program (in other words, WHAT SKILLS ARE REQUIRED? you have to serve articles) and Whilst the financial skills of then write the Certified Internal accountants are useful to do their Auditor exam as the final test of job effectively, internal auditors competence. Once qualified, you need to possess a high level can maintain your designations of technical internal auditing and knowledge through the IIA skills and superior business SA’s continuing professional acumen. They must be effective development program, and communicators, good project opt to write the IIA’s specialty managers, analytically strong, exams, which have been and it helps if they are excellent designed to further enhance negotiators. They need to be skills in particular areas such as emotionally intelligent, have government or financial services auditing and risk management. the ability to think strategically, network effectively and act as a business value enhancer.

ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE In addition, they must have CONSIDERING AUDITING? unflinching integrity, be grounded First do the groundwork to in ethics and possess reserves of determine whether this is the unwavering courage. right career choice for you. Once you are certain, then proceed WHAT TRAINING DO YOU ADVISE? to follow the aforementioned The basic steps are, firstly, to career path. Don’t forget that obtain an academic qualification being a member of the IIA SA and become a member of The allows you to make use of their Institute of Internal Auditors technical guidance resources and South Africa (IIA SA); this networking opportunities, and has is a professional body that a host of other benefits. You can represents the interests of the find out more about the IIA SA internal auditing career path by visiting website community and www.iiasa.org.za. post matric 2014 // 69

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2014/05/20 1:50 PM

accupuncturist horse training

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

I’m at work by 5.30/6am, weekends included. We check RACEHORSE TRAINER whether all the horses SELF-EMPLOYED have eaten supper EXPLAIN WHAT YOUR WORK ENTAILS and if not, why not, and on any The main aim is to train horses problems. Then the horses pull out to win races on the track. This onto the tracks in three strings, involves working the horses the first being at 6am. These are according to their various fitness usually the horses who are racing levels. It also involves making soon and need the fast work and sure the horses stay sound and the good track surfaces. Between do not incur injuries. Each horse working the strings there is has an owner/owners who have to paperwork to be done, owners often be kept informed as to how their visit and want to see their horses, horse is progressing, any problems and the vet arrives at some point to that occur and when he/she will check on the lame, sick and lazy. be racing. As I have approximately Horses that are racing fit have to be entered in the races – usually 120 horses in training at any about ten days beforehand. Once given time, this involves a fair all the morning work is complete, amount of work! the horses are fed. We start again WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? at 2pm, when we take the horses It was (and still is) more a case of for a long walk. Wednesdays and Saturdays are busy race days. learning, and gaining experience, on the job. When my father and stepmother started training, I WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? rode every day and learned a One puts in months of work and great deal. However, it is difficult careful planning, aiming a horse working for one’s parents, so at a specific race and making sure I moved to SA. I first worked that on the day it is 100%. When for trainer Michael Roberts at the horse wins, it is as if everything Turffontein before moving to has come together. The feeling is Port Elizabeth and working for incredible; probably the reason I’m Vaughan Marshall. When Vaughan still training! set up a satellite yard in Cape Town, I grabbed the opportunity ARE THERE ASPECTS OF YOUR WORK with both hands.

THAT YOU DON’T LIKE? I get extremely frustrated when we (on the training side) have done SE WINS,

Joey Ramsden

WHEN A HOR THE FEELING IS INCREDIBLE

everything right and the horse is ready to win, but in the race itself things don’t go as planned through jockey error. The jockey gets off and apologises, but the horse has to wait a good few weeks before it can race again and have a chance of earning. To miss an opportunity through incompetence or poor judgement does not sit well.

HAVE THERE BEEN HURDLES YOU’VE HAD TO OVERCOME?

Our daily running expenses have increased enormously over the past couple of years. It is not always possible to carry these increases over into the training fees, which results in the stable having to carry the costs.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

One definitely needs patience, something which I do not possess in abundance. I am also my own worst critic and if things don’t work out as planned, as often happens, I beat myself up for ages afterwards. One needs to be able to trust one’s staff, as it is impossible to do everything.

ANY ADVICE FOR ASPIRING YOUNG TRAINERS?

Be prepared to work extremely hard and listen to the guys who have lots of experience. Never be afraid to ask questions. Work in the stables where you will gain hands-on experience; that is the best way to learn.

70 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/13 1:25 PM

PG23.indd 1

2014/03/24 1:18 PM

Building a future South Africa – road by road SANRAL is about more than roads. It builds people. It builds communities; and it helps to build a future South Africa with the capacity to meet the demands of a growing economy.

Over the next 15 years the country will invest almost R4-trillion in strategic infrastructure as part of a national development initiative to support balanced economic growth in all nine provinces. The national and provincial road networks will form the backbone on which 18 Strategic Infrastructure Projects will be delivered, supplemented by a rejuvenated freight rail system.

The planning and implementation of these infrastructure initiatives will place huge demands on South Africa’s ability to provide skilled human resources. The National Development Plan, which provides the blueprint for the country’s economic growth path over the next two decades, has set a target for the country to produce 30 000 artisans a year. By 2030 there should be 2.5 million people in the postschool technical sector, up from the current 650 000.

State-owned companies such as SANRAL will share the burden with the private sector to train a skilled work-force to enable the country to meet the growing economic demands for modern new infrastructure and the maintenance of existing networks.

SANRAL is already contributing to the country’s national developmental objectives and intends to grow its contribution in the years to come. This will be achieved through continuous investment in skills development, bursaries, internships and talent management within an organisation that currently has a staff complement of only 238 people.

It starts at high school level where the road agency has a scholarship programme in place to identify and develop talent in the scarce fields of mathematics, science and technology. At present 179 learners in all nine provinces benefit from this programme aimed to guide promising learners towards a future career in engineering.

For the past seven years SANRAL has been offering bursaries to students for undergraduate studies in civil engineering and related disciplines in the built environment. Seventy bursaries were granted for a total investment by the company of almost R6-million.

Nineteen SANRAL employees were awarded bursaries in the last financial year amounting to an additional half-amillion rand.

Moreover, SANRAL provides internships to engineering students and offers them practical work experience during their studies and upon completion of their degrees.

The agency has strong ties with a number of tertiary education institutions. It sponsors a Chair in Pavement Engineering at the University of Stellenbosch and another one in Transport Planning at the University of Cape Town.

SANRAL cooperates with the University of the Witwatersrand in supporting some 200 academically talented learners from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It aims to increase their academic, social and psychological preparation for admission to and success at local universities.

A similar programme is in place at the University of the Free State to enable and encourage more learners and students to enter into science-related studies.

Internally SANRAL has a talent management and succession planning process in place to identify potential, attract new skills into the company and ensure a transfer of skills from senior, experience staff to the next generation of leadership in the fields of engineering, finance, people management, administration and technical skills.

Through these initiatives SANRAL is contributing to the broader needs of a future South Africa which will require more skilled human resources, more scientists, engineers, artisans and people with post-school technical qualifications.

www.sanral.co.za

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2014/05/19 10:36 AM

construction

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I read an article about it whilst I was in matric. The skills required by a quantity surveyor appealed to me and I applied to study at both UCT and Technikon. I was fortunate to be accepted at UCT.

WHAT IS A PROFESSIONAL QUANTITY SURVEYOR?

Quantity surveyors act in liaison with architects, consulting engineers and contractors to safeguard the client’s interests.

They are independent experts who operate in a specialised area of the construction industry; the financial consultants of the industry whose training and experience qualify them to advise on cost and contractual arrangements, as well as providing property development advice.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU DO?

I studied the five-year degree course in Quantity Surveying, BSc (Quantity Surveying), at the University Of Cape Town.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK?

You should be highly numerate and analytical, enjoy working with finances, pay attention to detail and possess good communication skills – both written and oral.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Yes, I believe it is. Any candidate quantity surveyor should be prepared to spend at least three years gaining experience, and providing a logbook of that

experience in order to register as a professional quantity surveyor.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

Days normally involve meetings (either in the office or on site) and telephonic and written communications with professional persons including architects, engineers, building contractors and clients.

Alternatively, the day would be spent preparing or checking calculations for estimates, working on tenders, monthly certificates and final accounts.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

Michael Kleve

PROFESSIONAL QUANTITY SURVEYOR MIKE KLEVE QUANTITY SURVEYORS

The opportunity to provide accuracy and detail whilst under pressure, and to meet realistic deadlines for projects that have been properly planned and/or designed and have a good chance of fruition. My training and experience as a quantity surveyor has given me the opportunity to work in other parts of the world including Namibia, United Kingdom and the Middle East.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? To grow Mike Kleve Quantity Surveyors in order to provide a quantity surveying service not only locally and nationally, but perhaps also internationally.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT ON THIS CAREER PATH?

Be patient and be prepared to learn the basics from a registered professional quantity surveyor.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Professional, pressured and Starting my own sustainable analytical. registered quantity surveying practice has been the highlight and most rewarding PREPARED part of being a BE PATIENT AND BE quantity surveyor.

TO LEARN THE BASICS

post matric 2014 // 73

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2014/05/20 9:58 AM

Fasset.indd 1

2014/05/08 12:20 PM

finance

EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING?

Experience is far more important in my industry.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK

Daniel Malan

CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER REGARDING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I didn’t. It chose me. I believe that for most people the age range of 18 to 30 is an experimental phase of life when one tries out many things until what you are truly passionate about finds you. Numbers make sense or ‘speak’ to me. I enjoy working with people, developing myself and other people, and thrive on finding dynamic solutions to constantly changing challenges.

HOW DID YOU GET TO THE LEVEL YOU ARE AT?

To achieve ‘expertise’ status in my profession demands complete commitment and a passion that borders on obsession, over a minimum period of ten years. That makes it unusual, compared to, say, dentistry where you can actually add value from day one.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I get to work around 8am and spend the early parts of the morning in informal discussions with my colleagues about various professional and personal interesting things. Most of the rest of my day is taken up in either self-study, informal and formal meetings, or on telephone calls with clients, colleagues and research contacts. I make as much effort as possible to have opportunities in my day/week to recharge.

Large parts of my job, such as research, managing people and meeting clients, demand tremendous amounts of energy.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

Every day is a new day, with its own complex problems. The basics might be similar, but there is a constant flow of new information that might or might not make sense to assess.

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU DON’T ENJOY?

No, nothing. I love what I do. Occasionally I get so caught up in my work that my health and family life take a bit of a beating. Fortunately my wife regularly reminds me to get back on track!

THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Having helped to build the firm I represent from its humble beginnings ten years ago.

I fundamentally distrust most of the formalised education systems as they tend to focus on stopping students from thinking for themselves and try to fit them into boxes because that’s easier to do. The tools I have acquired are a result of making many mistakes, small and large, over the past twenty years, and studying these mistakes to better understand them, and myself, and to work out what I can do to improve.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

WHAT ‘MAKES’ AN INVESTMENT OFFICER?

Keep your head down, roll up your shirtsleeves and just get stuck in. Always say yes to the ‘dirty jobs’.

Always remember where you came from. Think independently and critically for yourself. Don’t trust what your own eyes haven’t seen. Above all else, always ask “Why?”.

An enormous amount of what I do involves convincing others of the merits of my independent and often controversial thoughts. The ability to adapt to people, and communicate well, socially and professionally, is very important.

Helping to take the firm I represent to a permanently higher, sustainable level of excellence based on global best practice. Simultaneously, I want to live a healthy and balanced life filled with the company of my loved ones.

ANY ADVICE FOR THOSE STARTING OUT IN THE FINANCE INDUSTRY?

post matric 2014 // 75

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2014/05/20 1:52 PM

accupuncturist marketing

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

From the time I was a kid, I have been fascinated with the world of advertising and media. As I grew older, I realised my creative mind and my enthusiasm to know more about human and consumer behaviour pulled me towards the field of marketing.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did a DCC Diploma in Marketing Management at Damelin Correspondence College.

WHAT TYPE OF PERSONALITY IS BEST SUITED TO WORKING IN MARKETING?

A forward thinker; an individual that is perceptive, objective and assertive. A brand specialist needs to have good analytical skills, be a people person and be passionate about the brand they represent. They should also be an excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Yes, you have to be able to apply theory and to adapt to each organisation’s operations and policies.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

I monitor market trends and oversee advertising and marketing activities to ensure the right message is delivered for the products or services my company handles. I also regularly attend product launches, conferences and exhibitions.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

It’s fast paced and I enjoy the exciting projects I get to work with daily. There’s never a dull moment!

Lorna Williams

JUNIOR BRAND MANAGER LEMONBUZZ BRAND ACTIVATION GROUP

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR? Getting to work with a host of celebrities, and the opportunity to work with brands that I am proud to be associated with – brands that are now entrenched in the market, partly due to my contribution.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To move up to an executive level. Eventually I hope to open my own consultancy.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN MARKETING?

You have to be willing to start from the bottom, and be prepared to work under pressure and to extremely tight deadlines. You have to be instinctive and be able to handle each challenge individually. You can’t keep on using the same winning formula, you need to constantly change your strategy. It is essential that you adopt out-the-box thinking.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Unpredictable • Dynamic • Rewarding

YOU NEED TO CONSTANTLY CHANGE YOUR STRATEGY 76 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/15 9:15 AM

management

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO SETTLE INTO THIS LINE OF WORK?

I would say the work chose me.

I’ve always had a keen interest in medicine, and originally wanted to be a paediatrician, but when an appeal came over the radio looking for volunteers to join a new organisation called Reach For A Dream, I immediately called in to offer my services. That was back in 1990. I started out as a volunteer, while working at Tygerberg Hospital. Then I was approached to work for the foundation fulltime. I have been the Cape Town Branch Manager for eighteen years now, and love each and every day!

WHAT IS REACH FOR A DREAM?

It is an organisation that aims to fulfil the dreams of children between the ages of 3 and 18 who have been diagnosed as having a life-threatening illness by a medical practitioner. Reach For A Dream believes that no child should live without hope; childhood is intended to be the most magical phase of human existence, filled with dreams, aspirations and most of all, fun!

For children who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, the wonder of childhood is often lost in the emotional, physical and financial strain of dealing with their illness.

Reach For A Dream strives to alleviate part of this anxiety by creating a novel environment for the child, one that is focused on laughter, excitement and entertainment.

WHAT ARE THE OUTCOMES?

Fulfilling dreams enables children to experience a fun aspect of life,

one they often do not get to participate in due to their illness. The positive effect of the ‘dream come true’ lingers, and children often respond better to their medication.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN YOUR DAY-TO-DAY WORK?

My overall responsibilities include: ensuring the proficient and sustainable running of the office; implementing the volunteer programme; ensuring credibility and accountability within the region from a financial and administrative perspective; and basically facilitating communications in many and varied spheres. Each day is different, and working for an NGO requires one to get stuck into every aspect of the work.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? No official training is required for a position such as mine, but the knowledge and qualifications required to fulfil the demands of the role include excellent reporting, communication and leadership skills, creativity, an orientation towards quality, and the ability to meet targets while working as part of a team.

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?

The fear of public speaking!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

The diversity and opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of our very brave dreamers!

Heidi Rowley

BRANCH MANAGER REACH FOR A DREAM

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

The emotional downside of dealing with the heartache that comes about as a result of the health conditions and illnesses.

YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?

There have been so many moments that define highlights... such as achieving a dream which everyone thought impossible, or seeing our dreamers overcoming their personal obstacles and really living for each day. Such enormous life lessons!

WHICH TRAITS SHOULD SOMEONE IN YOUR POSITION IDEALLY POSSESS?

You need to be a nonjudgmental, confident person. You must be open, approachable and able

to be a role model. An empathetic, child-friendly, nondiscriminating, respectful person who is also mature, responsible, honest, competent, inspiring and fair. And, of course, you must have a great love of children.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Unquestionably soul fulfilling! post matric 2014 // 77

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2014/05/20 1:53 PM

accupuncturist event management

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I was a very sporty kid and have had a passion for the ocean from as far back as I can remember. My sporting endeavours, through school and post matric, opened a number of doors that allowed me to travel and meet interesting people. I also learnt that success was all about hard work.

I believed that if I was to combine my passion for the ocean and the experience gained in my sporting community, I could change the way people looked at Surfski events, so I started a series of ten races – which I still run today. Hard work is always much easier when you love what you do.

Barry Lewin

SPORT EVENT OWNER/ATHLETE/COACH SELF-EMPLOYED

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I completed an IMM Diploma in Marketing Management as well as a Diploma in Sports Management through Varsity College. While at Varsity College I was able to intern at a number of sporting events. I also did some sports coaching and started a marketing programme alongside my own sporting career. All extremely valuable experiences in gaining industry skills.

ARE CERTAIN PERSONALITY TRAITS REQUIRED?

The event organising industry I work in is very pressurised in terms of meeting deadlines, so one needs to be motivated and goal-driven. There is also a huge fun component, as one gets to do different things every day – so it is good to be able to adapt to different situations on the run.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

I think they go hand-in-hand; one without the other does not have the same impact as the two combined. They are both equally important in building knowledge and skills. Formal education brings things like structure, work ethic and creative ideas to the table, whereas experience brings confidence, communication and decision-making skills into play.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

Up early to train or coach at the beach and back to the office by 9am for a couple of hours at my desk organising details for upcoming events. This may include talking to suppliers, sponsors and entrants as well as planning the logistic details for races. I kick out of the office after 3pm to do another training session, and finish the day off with another 20 minutes back in the office to respond to queries received while paddling, and to plan the next day’s tasks and goals.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It is never the same, really. Whether paddling or working on events, there is always something new waiting around the corner. On the ocean, no two days are ever the same; some days have lots of wind and others big waves. Events are diverse, with so many different aspects. These enviroments are constantly challenging me to adapt and to think outside the box.

Being your own boss is also really cool as you get to call the shots.

ASPECTS THAT YOU ARE LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

Working on weekends really does hamper one’s social life. When my family and friends are relaxing, I am normally working. Training for long hours can also be really tiring.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

From an athlete’s perspective, being the captain of a national team is definitely something I will never forget. Representing one’s country is something very special. On the work front, every event is special – to watch your hard work take shape on the day and to see people creating positive memories to take home as a result of one of my events, is all very rewarding.

ADVICE FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN SPORTS EVENTS?

Don’t be scared to break away from the norm, but be sure to back it up with all you’ve got. Innovation, creativity and forward-thinking come from people who are willing to experiment with ideas, and work hard enough to make them work in the real world. Find a passion and work, work, work. Use your talents to shape your ideas and make your dreams a reality.

78 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/20 1:54 PM

VARSITY COLLEGE.indd 1

2014/03/24 2:00 PM

TshwaneUni/UniFreeState.indd 1

2014/05/19 2:15 PM

creative writing

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE A CAREER AS A WRITER?

I grew up in a house full of books.

My mother was a librarian. I’ve loved writing since I learned to read. I also really value the freedom that working from home affords a freelancer.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?

I studied languages at the University of Natal. A little later I did an English Honours degree through UNISA. And some time later I did an MA in Creative Writing at UCT. But the best advice I received was from a newspaper editor who lived next door. He told me that if I wanted to write I should not study journalism, but something that interested me. I should find out what’s going on out there, try out different ways of thinking. He believed you could not be taught to write, but you could be encouraged to think. I think he was right.

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY

There is no typical day, that’s the best part. If you have a deadline you can work well into the night to meet it. But if you don’t, well… you can head off to the beach, or canvas for more work, or write a novel.

I love the flexibility.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

The flexibility. The creativity. Even though not all writing work is creative. I once had to edit legal statutes.

WHAT DON’T YOU ENJOY?

I don’t like not having the luxury of a reliable paycheck at the end of each month.

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?

Getting rid of those voices that say you cannot make money as a writer.

Susan Mann WRITER

SELF-EMPLOYED

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Having my two novels published, and the ripple effects of that.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? To write more fiction.

IN YOUR LINE OF WORK, IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? It’s more important.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK, OR CERTAIN TRAITS ONE SHOULD (OR SHOULD NOT) HAVE?

I think it helps to be a person who listens.

Not only to what the world is saying, but to what it’s not saying too. It’s important to be able to listen to your own voice, not only other opinions, to the rhythms of your own sentences. Keeping a journal helps.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?

Decide what ‘making it’ as a freelance writer means to you. Then find a way to give yourself two years to get there. Keep notes on the journey.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Liberating • Satisfying • Creative

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2014/05/20 1:58 PM

accupuncturist food technology

WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO?

I work as a quality coordinator. I deal with internal audits, investigation of customer complaints, training, quality checks, verification of equipment and consumables.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I was accepted to study BCom and Food Technology.

I did further research about both career options and felt that Food Technology would be more interesting and challenging. The microbiology component also intrigued me. Food Technology is a versatile career.

One can work in a chemical or microbiology lab as a product developer where you would develop new products, match existing products or reduce costs of an existing product without compromising taste and quality, or on the production floor where you are expected to manage the production line or work as a quality controller.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

I did Food Technology at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

High pressure and challenging. Planning is key.

In the morning, I verify that the equipment is in operating order, that the temperature is in spec and may be used. Thereafter I check that the media used to analyze products has passed its quality sterility indicators – that’s standard every day. Then there are other duties like spot checks and audits, investigation of non-conformances, training, etc.

Naqsha Savahl

QUALITY COORDINATOR SWIFT MICRO LABORATORIES

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME?

Self-discipline. I recall my lecturer saying that Food Technology is one of the busiest courses at the campus. You have to focus and study while everybody else on campus is playing dominoes and shooting pool. It was all worth it though.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

When Swift won the SADC Quality Award for Service of the Year. The award system was established by government through the Department of Trade and Industry with an aim to promote and raise awareness about the need for quality assurance, quality management and the different methods on how to achieve such quality standards. The award reflects commitment to local production and quality.

EXPERIENCE VERSUS TRAINING: WHO WINS?

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

Each day is different and presents new challenges.

You always have to think out of the box.

You really start learning when you start working. I would recommend studying at a university that offers experiential learning as part of the course. That time spent can also help you decide which field of Food Technology you should pursue.

ANYTHING YOU DON’T LIKE?

A FOOD TECHNOLOGIST IS...

Long hours. Whether you work in a lab or production, your work hours are not always set. If there is a problem on the production line or in the lab you need to ensure that the problem is fixed. You can’t fix it the following day. Products need to be produced for customers to consume. If you are analyzing products, the client always wants the results ASAP.

Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, to operate with a team, as well as independently. They must have a big dose of patience and understanding, and a passion for the task at hand.

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2014/05/20 1:57 PM

NMISA.indd 1

2014/05/08 11:41 AM

fine art

WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?

Jenny Parsons FINE ARTIST

SELF-EMPLOYED

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

From a young age, I have enjoyed making and creating things. After I matriculated, I considered various creative fields such as architecture or graphic design. But once I had seen the Fine Art Department at DTU, I knew that the creative freedom of Fine Art was for me.

IF YOU HAVE A MORE UNUSUAL CAREER, EXPLAIN WHAT IT IS THAT YOU DO

A fine artist is someone who makes artwork that is personal and unique to them. It is art created for beauty or meaning. Another name for my job is a visual artist.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?

I completed four years at Durban University of Technology, gaining a Higher Diploma in Fine Art with painting as my major.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB

A day in the studio involves arriving early, calming my mind, mixing up paint and getting down to it.

When I’m not painting, I draw, do research, deal with galleries and clients, manage my accounts, document my work and update my website.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I have had to learn that I cannot sit and wait for inspiration to come to me. Self-discipline and a good work ethic are essential parts of the job.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE? My last two solo exhibitions.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? To keep making art!

IN YOUR LINE OF WORK, IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING?

Definitely. You have to put in the hours. When making art, you learn by doing the work.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK, OR CERTAIN TRAITS ONE SHOULD HAVE (OR NOT HAVE)?

You need to have a good balance of self-discipline, ambition, practical ability, playfulness and creativity.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT AS AN ARTIST?

You may need to do other jobs to earn an income, particularly at the beginning of your career.

But make sure that you ALWAYS make time to do your own work, so that you can keep growing as an artist.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Exciting • Challenging • Fulfilling

I love the fact that the work I create is never the same. I am always trying new approaches and yet, because it is made by me, it is always my own unique work.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

Running a studio is like running a small business. I find it hard to switch from my creative brain to my business brain.

84 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/20 1:58 PM

Tshwane-FacultyofArts.indd 1

2014/04/24 12:41 PM

Life-changing careers begin with a St John training course If you’re thinking about a rewarding career in medicine or nursing, begin your journey by completing a St John First Aid or Community Health Work training programme. Our First Aid NQF Level 1 (US 119567) and First Aid NQF Level 2 (US 120496) short courses are accredited with the Health & Welfare SETA, as is our Community Health Work Level 2 full qualification. St John is registered with the Department of Labour for First Aid Level 1, 2 & 3, which is a requirement of the OHS Act of 1993.

Choose a St John training programme as part of your vocational or full qualification education.

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2014/05/19 2:29 PM

radio broadcasting

EXPERIENCE VS FORMAL TRAINING?

Sure, experience is important, but training gives you the competitive edge over other people who may be gunning for the same position. It is important to train because education gives you a solid knowledge base that helps you become more efficient. Boston gave me both the theory and the practical knowledge to get ahead in the industry.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE BEAT

Wake up at 4am and get to YFM at 5am; start the radio show at 6am; do a voice-over at 11am; klap a few meetings during the day; get home at 8pmish and hopefully squeeze some TV in before bed.

YOUR FAVOURITE PARTS OF THE JOB?

Moeti Tsiki – Mo Flava

MORNING DRIVE-TIME DJ & TV PERSONALITY YFM

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

I’ve been listening to radio from a young age and over the years my interest grew stronger and stronger. I did some research and found out that I could study a radio-related course and hopefully get a job in the industry. I’ve always had a keen interest in world affairs and daily news, and I happen to be quite outspoken as well. The aforementioned factors gave me enough clout and inspiration to pursue a career in radio.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?

I did a Diploma in Media Practices, majoring in Journalism, at Boston Media House.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY MOST SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF WORK?

You need to be inquisitive and always eager to find out about ‘happening stuff’. You need to enjoy talking to people, and you need to have an interest in current and world affairs. Finally, you need to have a firm grasp of the society that surrounds you.

The fact that I can make a difference in people’s lives using my platform.

WHICH ASPECTS OF THE WORK ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

The politics of the industry... but I just choose to ignore that aspect.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Getting to host a breakfast show on the biggest youth station in the country. Its been an awesome four-year run.

YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

To eventually work for a national radio station, to host more TV shows, and to own a multimedia company focusing on audio-visual and marketing communications.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?

Establish whether or not the career you want to get into will make you happy. If you see it as just a job, then don’t do it. Rather get into a career path that interests you all day, every day.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Exhilarating, exciting and rewarding.

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2014/05/20 2:01 PM

accupuncturist sales/healthcare

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN THIS PROFESSION?

Thanks to my background in science, and the combination of my extroverted personality and good people skills, medical sales was the ideal choice for me.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

Crystal Singh

We are expected to MEDICAL REPRESENTATIVE ‘call’ or see eight FOR PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY doctors and three ABBOTT LABORATORIES pharmacists per day.

The average day entails being at the first doctor’s EXPLAIN WHAT IT IS THAT YOU DO appointment by 8am, where one HURDLES YOU HAVE OVERCOME Well, I am a ‘legal drug dealer’! But will sometimes wait up to an hour There is a lot of competition in on a more serious note, I market or more in order to work around the pharmaceutical industry, so prescription drugs to doctors and patients. Once in the doctor’s competitor representatives make pharmacists. A drug is defined room, we have discussions it difficult for one to corner the as a chemical substance used in with him/her regarding their market. Also, the high call rate of the treatment, cure, prevention, experience with selected drugs eight doctors daily is not always or diagnosis of disease, or used offered by my company, and easy to achieve. to otherwise enhance physical encourage the use of the latest or mental well-being, so even drugs on the market that will add WHAT ‘MAKES’ A MEDICAL REP? a laxative is considered a drug. value to their patients’ lives.

One should be very sociable, very There are, however, drugs that are patient, very understanding, and sold over the counter, and drugs WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? alert at all times... because a that are scheduled and need to Medical represntatives have a lot of time is spent on the road; be prescribed by a healthcare very social job. I get to meet a lot planning and organisational professional (doctor). So my job of people, and every day is full of skills are a must; one should entails understanding the mode of different people and places. be articulate and able to action of the active ingredients of a communicate well; and, it is drug as well as the pharmacological CAREER HIGHLIGHTS? important for one to be dynamic properties of a drug and, if any, its Overachieving in my sales targets and leave a lasting impression. possible associated side effects. and being rewarded with large incentive bonuses, as well as ADVICE FOR YOUNG REPS? WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? going to conferences in exotic Persevere; it takes about six A science background is a standard destinations, both SA and abroad. months in order to become prerequisite; I have my Honour’s accustomed to the lifestyle, the in Microbiology, and medical EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING? pre-planning needed to achieve experience in pathology, and that It’s a combination. A science targets set out by the company, as gave me a sufficient foundation background is always better, well as finding one’s way around for understanding the medical however, rookie reps are the territory. A GPS is essential. industry. However, once you are sometimes employed through with a pharmaceutical company, graduate programs.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS they have training facilities and Exhilarating, exhausting and exam modules designed to educate enthralling. the medical representative on the products before they go out into the field to communicate with doctors or pharmacists.

88 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/20 2:01 PM

South West Gauteng College.indd 1

2014/05/13 9:05 AM

Grand Central Airport Main Terminal Building New Road, Midrand Tel: +27 (11) 805 9015/6 Fax: +27 (11) 805 9018 fly@fts.co.za Vereeniging Airport Cnr West and Baron Str Aerovaaal Tel: 016 556 4499 ftsvtown@afrihost.co.za ATO NO: CAA0284

www.fts.co.za

denel/steyns/flight.indd 1

2014/05/15 11:06 AM

microbiology

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE MICROBIOLOGY?

I have always had a passionate interest in biology and towards the end of my school career I became more interested in the causes and cures for different diseases. This interest in diseases combined with my love for the sea, which was fostered by my grandfather, saw me seeking placement in a marine facility after qualifying as a microbiologist.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?

Shaleen Bhikka

MARINE MICROBIOLOGIST SAAMBR, SEA WORLD USHAKA

After completing matric I studied at UKZN majoring in Biological and Micro Science.

WHAT MAKES A ‘GOOD’ SCIENTIST?

WHAT ASPECTS ARE YOU LEAST KEEN ON?

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS TRAINING?

WHAT ARE THE JOB HIGHLIGHTS?

You need an enquiring mind and a lot of strength and endurance.

Formal training gives you the principles on which to base your experiences. I sincerely hope both formal training and experience will be ongoing throughout my career. However, you cannot start this career without formal training as it would be like trying to find a black dot in pitch darkness – you cannot interpret what you are looking at without the necessary knowledge.

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY

Each day presents new challenges. We check on our patients from the previous night and adjust the feeding and medical charts according to their progress. We check water quality, take tissue samples for analysis, medicate and treat the fish in our care.

I really have to force myself to sit down and do admin; certainly not the best part of my day.

Whenever I successfully diagnose and treat a fish and watch it fully recover – fortunately this happens often.

IN THE FUTURE...

I am going to continue with my studies and continue to find unknown strains of bacteria and share this information with the rest of the world for the benefit of all marine fish species.

ADVICE FOR BUDDING MICROBIOLOGISTS?

If you have an insatiable thirst for knowledge you will probably suit a career in the micro world.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Interesting • Challenging • Rewarding

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY?

I love looking at cell biology, bacteria and parasites and their ability to manipulate the environment to best suit themselves. It’s only when you have an understanding of the parasites and bacteria that you are able to successfully treat fish.

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2014/05/20 2:02 PM

accupuncturist advertising

Jasmine Röhl

SENIOR DIGITAL PLANNER & STRATEGIST PHD SOUTH AFRICA

WHY DIGITAL PLANNING?

I have always had a passion for everything ‘digital’. I was exposed to the world of computers and the internet at a very young age, thanks to my brother, an IT geek!

Long story short, from the days of flashing neon banners on the most basic websites, I had been extremely interested in the world of advertising on the web.

As I grew up, and as the web grew up, my interest in digital advertising had grown up too. I would not swap my career choice for anything.

IF YOU HAVE AN UNUSUAL CAREER, EXPLAIN WHAT IT IS THAT YOU DO

I have the task of finding media platforms for a client’s brand or product. The job of digital media planning/strategy involves determining the best combination of media (across web and mobile) to achieve the campaign objectives of certain client.

WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? While people study marketing and advertising through schools like AAA and Red & Yellow, I learnt what I know today by starting out at the bottom, seven years ago (as a PA to the general manager of an advertising company). I then moved into traditional media buying and not long after that,

I ended up in my dream field – digital media advertising. At that point, I strived to learn as much as I could from the people around me and I have never stopped striving to learn, and to be the best that I possibly can!

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

Stressful, LOL, but having a campaign signed off and seeing it go live is the most rewarding feeling ever.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

I enjoy the perks of being spoilt by media owners (suppliers), and when you get a pat on the back and the ‘well done’ speech.

to breathe, take a step back and realise that pleasing the whole world is never possible.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS?

The 1st Feb 2011 when I joined PHD, and the first time that I presented to the Checkers Team in 2013.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?

I would like to conquer the strategy side of digital and hopefully take on Silicon Valley after that (it’s like the Hollywood of technology).

EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING?

Experience is more important.

WHAT ‘MAKES’ A DIGITAL PLANNER?

I hate having people shout at me, or having to chase after people for answers to pretty easy questions.

You need to be able to control your temper, possess attention to detail and have the ability to accept constructive criticism, but, mainly, to be enthusiastic. The world of digital changes faster than Cape Town’s weather, so an eagerness to learn is what will take you to great heights!

HURDLES YOU HAVE OVERCOME?

ADVICE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

I would have to say that the two biggest hurdles would be constantly having to prove myself, and learning not to take mess-ups personally, no matter how out of my control the situation is or how much shouting goes down.

Thankfully, I am slowly learning

Never give up on learning new things and never let anyone stop you from being the best that you know you can be!

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS:

Stressful, rewarding and fun!

92 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/20 2:03 PM

SHEPPERD ACADEMY D ep t O f H igher Educ ation Prov R eg No: 20 1 0 / Fet0 7 / 1 0 6 H wswta A c c reditation No: 0 0 622PA NA TI O NA L D I PLO M A S & Boiler Maker N2 - N6 Mechanical Engineering N2-N6 Matric U pgrade & Re-W rite Technical Matric N3

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FIND YOUR CAREER

www.postmatric.co.za

Loads of career profiles to choose from, including: >> inspirational interviews >> what qualifications you’ll need >> where you can study >> how to secure funding >> what subjects you’ll need

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2014/05/20 8:50 AM

“KNOW YOUR CAPABILITIES.” Siviwe Nomkala, Music, UCT

“MAKE SURE YOU DO THE PRESCRIBED READING.”

“IMAGINE A TRIANGLE: ONE POINT IS SLEEP, ONE STUDY AND THE OTHER SOCIAL LIFE. YOU CAN ONLY CHOOSE TWO!” Theo Thethemohoto, Jewellery Design, CPUT

Imaan Kamish, Business Science Marketing, UCT

“KEEP A CIRCLE OF CLOSE FRIENDS.” Mzamo Mncibi, Economics and Finance, UCT

SURVIVE FIRST-YEAR Strategic advice on making the most of firstyear at college or varsity from those who have bravely gone before you…

“GO TO ORIENTATION – THAT’S WHERE YOU WILL MAKE FRIENDS. ALSO, DON’T OVERSLEEP!” Monique Godfree, Sarah Watkins-Baker and Jessica Ball, Speech Language Methodology, UCT

“MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE NERDS – I MEAN THE CLEVER PEOPLE!” Vimlesh Govender, Second Year, University of KZN

“DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE WORK, BUT DON’T SPEND TOO LONG IN THE LIBRARY.” “SLEEP WHILE YOU CAN. REDUCE HANGOVERS.”

Haren Naicket, Social Sciences, UCT

Evan Hughes, Industrial Design, CPUT

94 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/21 10:58 AM

top tips “IF YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO YOU WILL SURVIVE BECAUSE THEN EVEN THE HARD WORK IS FUN AND GAMES.” Deshen Padayachee, Animation, City Varsity

“DON’T ASK SOMEONE ELSE TO DO YOUR TUTORIALS FOR YOU.” Nolwazi Gxawu, Accounting, UCT

“ENJOY TIME IN THE SHOWER WHILE YOU CAN. YOU DON’T GET MUCH TIME TO SHOWER ONCE YOU’RE AT VARSITY.” Kalin Oelofse, Industrial Design, CPUT

“90% OF SUCCESS IS SHOWING UP ON TIME. EAT PLENTY OF VEGGIES.” David Traub, Acting, City Varsity

“STOCK UP ON ENERGY DRINKS.” Miki Webster, Industrial Design, CPUT

“BE OPEN-MINDED: YOU ARE ALL TOGETHER TO EXCHANGE IDEAS.” Tim Shoko, Science Politics, Philosophy and Sociology, UCT

“GET INVOLVED IN MANY EXTRA-CURRICULA ACTIVITIES TO BALANCE THINGS OUT.”

SOSO

Alessandra Macmillan, Business, Science, Finance and Accounting, UCT

“IF YOU MAKE USE OF ALL THE RESOURCES THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU, YOU’LL BE FINE. SPEAK UP IF YOU NEED HELP.”

“DON’T GIVE UP YOUR SOCIAL LIFE COMPLETELY. YOU CAN’T JUST STUDY.” Nathierah Essa, Psychology, UCT

25 L E A R N

Pumla Mandela, Social Sciences, UCT

“KNOW WHO YOUR FRIENDS ARE AND WHAT THEIR STRENGTHS ARE. NEVER GIVE UP; IT TAKES TIME TO KNOW HOW TO COPE.” Portie Seshabela, Engineering, UCT

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2014/05/21 10:58 AM

backchat

WHAT’S APP DAD! Robbie Stammers comes to terms with the fact that he has been left behind in this new(ish) age of technology, and by his very own offspring.

“Hey

Sasha, guess what? I have downloaded ‘What’s Up’ onto my phone!” I proudly exclaimed to my daughter a while back.

My teenager executed the upward roll of the eye/heavy sigh combo, reserved for the less-informed (which happens to always include parents), then proceeded to explain: “Dad, it is not called ‘What’s Up’, it is called ‘Whats App’ as in Application”.

“Oh right, of course. That is what I meant” I muttered, trying to cover my clearly ignorant old tracks.

I do admit that in my youth (or back in the dark ages, according to my kids), my sister and I used to giggle uncontrollably whilst watching my mom trying to push play or record on the video machine. She had absolutely no idea what she was doing. The same can be said of my own Dad when it comes to mastering the art of operating cellular phones,

... pretty amazing for a guy who thinks HDTV = ‘Heavy Duty TV’.

9:05 AM

(My daughter performs the perfect eye-roll/sigh when I say that too, clearly mortally embarrassed by my attempts to speak the ‘lingo’.) Anyway, my research proved that there are far worse culprits out there than I, as far as ‘being clueless’ is concerned.

These are a mere few of the anonymous postings that the younger generation have put out there concerning their parent’s technical abilities, or lack thereof: – My uncle keeps his phone off until he is going to call somebody so that he ‘saves money’ on his cellphone bill.

– My mom came to visit the other day and I asked her to bring my old PS2 so I could use it to watch DVDs in my bedroom. She brought my old Nokia 6410 phone.

– When my mom found out she had a front-facing camera on her phone she freaked out and threw the phone down because she thought it was watching her.

– My mom opened up her web browser. I had recently set the homepage to Google. She exclaimed, “Oh good, we have Google now!”

– My dad just bought a 3D TV. This is pretty amazing for a guy who thinks HDTV means ‘Heavy Duty TV’.

– Mum told me the other day to get off someone else’s Facebook in case they were trying to use it themselves.

something that he still seems to struggle with. Still, he’s extremely proud of the fact that he has finally worked out how to put people on speed dial – two decades later.

However, I think it’s fair to say that my parents had it easy compared to parents of today. I mean, look at the amount of technological wizardry we have to attempt to stay on top of. I never used to consider myself as ‘technologically challenged’, but every week something new is popping up on my kids’ screens. Just when I think I have mastered ‘Whats App’, Facebook, and how to retrieve My uncle keeps his phone off until he and store someone’s BB pin, my is going to call someone. kids are talking about Pintrest, Instagram, We Chat, Snap Chat and some frikken Angry Birds – I was working in an internet of some kind. support call centre when a client So, in an attempt to redeem called in and told me her internet myself, I did some surfing on the net. was not working. I asked the

client to open a new window in her explorer. She told me she could not open the windows as it was snowing heavily outside.

– My grandfather needed to find an address and initially impressed me no end when he pulled out his iPad to use the GPS. Once he’d located the map, however, he pulled out a piece of tracing paper and drew the map onto paper.

– My sister asked for an iPad for Christmas and my mom said, “I thought you already had one, didn’t you download one onto your phone already?”

– The other day my dear old dad sent me a text that read ‘ohwowIhaveSmileys!whoknew!!’.

Great Dad, I am glad you’ve got Smileys, but it’s too bad they didn’t give you a space key as well.

And finally, my favourite quote of all: My mother asked me what website she needed to go to in order to create a new email address. I told her to type Hotmail.com into the address bar. She typed in Hotmale.com. I won’t go into detail, but suffice to say she didn’t get the address she was looking for.

So you see Sasha… your old dad is not so bad after all. In fact, compared to these kids’ parents, I’m actually pretty ‘with it’, LOL (I even know that means Laugh Out Loud). So WTF (which I also know means Why The Frown?) ;-) This Cool Dad rests his case! G2G

96 // post matric 2014

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2014/05/21 10:57 AM

Vaal University of Technology.indd 1

2014/04/17 10:31 AM

Damelin.indd 1

2014/03/24 2:12 PM