My teaching needs to take into consideration the lack of financial, emotional and psychological resources available to some of them. Some of my students have been pregnant, victims of violence and unable to afford to come to class. So I am not only a lecturer, I am often a counsellor, a mentor and a motivator. Often I am the one who gives tough love and they may not appreciate it or understand it when I push them to do better. This is because I honestly care enough to want only the best for them. 

The following email was obtained from students who were assisted and obtained job offers and a bursary.

Good afternoon ma'am,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the numerous opportunities you have extended to IFS students. I had the privilege of being a student in your IFS361 class last semester, where I also served as the class representative. Even after completing the module, your continued support and communication regarding opportunities have been invaluable.

Thanks to your guidance, I had the opportunity to participate in the Women in Tech program, attend AWS classes with a fully funded exam, and experience Sanlam's SDDA job shadow program. Today, I am thrilled to share that I have received a job offer from Sanlam for their SDDA academy. Your contributions have played a significant role in shaping my final year of university, and for that, I am truly grateful.

Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to the growth and success of students like me. God bless you.

Warm Regards,

Dhara.

Good day ma'am

I trust that this email finds you well.

Thank you for playing an essential role in my life and helping me discover this opportunity. I have been accepted to Sanlam's Data and Digital Academy. Additionally, I would also want to recognize that you really did try your best to help final-year students with employment next year and it does not go unnoticed. I may be just another number at the university but you do help change lives.

Much appreciated,

Alex

Dear Ms Petersen

I hope you are well. The interview went extremely well. I received the job offer the same day for a Junior Analyst role, however they want me to sign by Friday 3rd and I have an interview with Old Mutual on Friday 3rd for the Business Analyst role as well as second interviews with Pick n Pay of which there are no current dates thus far.

I would appreciate your help in terms of advice on what to do. I feel I would like to go to KPMG or Old Mutual as they are two good companies to gain exposure into various industries in the market. Pick n Pay I feel is restricted as it focuses on the retail supermarket industry and supply chain. Could I tell HR that I have interviews with various organisations and I would need time? I would not want to miss out on the opportunity.

Once again thank you so much for helping me in terms of my CV and all the advice. I could not thank you enough.

Kind Regards, Jason

Hi Mrs Petersen

I just want to thank you for sending us all these opportunities. I received a full bursary through the bursary opportunities you kept on forwarding to us and I have an interview next week for an internship.

I thank you so much, please continue doing the great work

Kind Regards,

Vuyokazi Matomela

My supervisor, Dr Fazlyn Petersen for her immeasurable insight, guidance, and encouragement throughout the research process. Her mentoring is incomparable. Thank you

They often come back after they’ve graduated and are employed to say thank you. On occasion, I received messages like the ones on the right as evidence that my work and mentoring are achieving my desired results.