Page 28 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 2 2025

NUTRITION

LANDING YOUR FIRST JOB

AFTER UNIVERSITY

tudents across South Africa now need to start considering their job hunt Gaining practical experience
and career strategy to ensure they are able to successfully transition through internships or part-time
Sinto the world of work, in the context of our extremely competitive work
employment landscape. “One of the most effective ways to pre-
pare for the workforce is by gaining practi-
“Graduation is rightly seen as the ultimate milestone in a student’s life—a cal experience while at university. Intern-
ships, part-time jobs or volunteer work
triumph after years of hard work and dedication. But as the cap and gown provide hands-on experience, allowing
are hung up, a new challenge looms: entering the world of work,” says James you to apply the knowledge you’ve gained
Read, senior manager at the Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank in class to real-world situations. Not only
College. does this bolster your resume, but it also
helps you develop essential workplace
“The transition from university to starting the job hunt and then landing your skills such as teamwork, communication
first job is daunting, but can be made a little less so if you prepare properly,” and problem-solving,” notes Read.
says Read. He says the importance of early preparation – that is, starting to
look ahead while you are still at university – cannot be emphasised enough. In South Africa, many companies offer
internship programs specifically designed
“While your university years are filled with lectures, exams and assignments, for students, and students are encour-
they also offer invaluable opportunities to build the foundation for your pro- aged to investigate opportunities in their
fessional life. Employers today are looking for more than just academic qualifi- field.
cations - they want candidates who are well-rounded, experienced and ready
to contribute from day one – and that is something you should start working “These opportunities not only give you a
on sooner rather than later.” taste of the working world but can also
lead to full-time employment after gradu-
Read says there are various practical ways in which students can ensure they ation. But even if your part-time job isn’t
leave university in a stronger position than their peers who had only focused directly related to your field of study, it
on academics. These include: teaches you valuable skills and makes for
an attractive entry on your CV.”

26 DPL issue 2 2025