UJ@20: A JOURNEY OF GROWTH

By Matlou Machoene | second Year Public relations and Communications Student at UJ

Celebration of the 20th anniversary since the inception of the University of Johannesburg, which continues on shaping the future of youngsters across countries and globally, mine included. I stepped in through the gate of UJ at Bunting road campus as a 21 year old Matlou Machoene from a rural village in Polokwane with nothing but a suitcase and a mountain of questions In my mind and things I wanted to know. Speaking as a Current 2nd year In public relations and communications student, I strongly believe  that coming to UJ does turn doubts about oneself and become inspired because of the motivating environment that UJ is, which is something I have experienced first hand.

THE FOUNDATION OF UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

The University of Johannesburg has rapidly established itself to be the 4th leading prestigious industrial revolution institution in SA because of its excellence and root in research. Its inception came about as a merger of the Rand Afrikaans University and Technikon Witwatersrand in 2005 University of Johannesburg.

MY JOURNEY AT UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

My journey as a second year student in public relations and communication studies has been an interesting and transformative expedition of my life and academic endeavors. At a state of cluelessness I found myself being at a welcoming, accommodating, diverse and inspiring university. This encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone , became open minded about different culture, beliefs, gender equality and continues to grow me intellectually,  to think outside the box like having problem solving and decision making skills.

Challenges encountered

When I made my first appearance at the University of Johannesburg, I was clouded by overwhelming emotions and not excluding anxiousness, driven immense change and  stress of being far from home and having to fill in bigger boots. I struggled a lot with social anxiety and time management which was caused by numerous responsibilities that I had to ful-fill at the same time, being under pressure to perform optimally in my academics , handling multiple responsibilities and personal life.

Improvements 

My time management was enhanced, I'm able to meet my deadlines, handling personal errands effectively and efficiently while being subjected to exorbitant and  demanding workload and pressure. I began overcoming my social anxiety and began to participate in classes and socialising with fellow students, which Improved my listening skills,  adaptation and learnt to communicate better which boosted my self confidence and courage which enabled me to articulate my point effectively and efficiently during public speaking. The group assignments instilled leadership skills and emotional intelligence    .

The University of Johannesburg taught me the importance of networking, building relationships, and maintaining them. These relations helped me in adapting to changing and challenging situations that I come across. Being able to channel my stress towards the bigger picture, also caused by motivation from diverse individuals in terms of their demographics , culture,  personalities and differently-abled individuals

MY ACADEMIC GROWTH

Through formative and summative assessments, I gained theoretical knowledge , media skills and critical communication which deepens my understanding about the dynamics of public relations which enables me to engage with different phenomenons across regions

UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG TO ME :

As a public relations and communication student, University of Johannesburg is more than a school to me, it is an environment where i learn, develop , grow and work on attaining the best version of myself. It's a home away from home, it's a place where I am inspired to become, by focusing and working on my goals which shape my future and the future of next generation. 

COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

University of Johannesburg plans a considerable role in fighting socio-economic and political issues through formal and high quality education. It's fight against illiteracy, inequality, unemployment and poverty affecting people is seen in its diverse enrollment of students. It offers more than in-class theory, it applies real-life scenarios through programs that play a meaningful role and duty in community Engagement. 

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

I believe UJ's capabilities in offering scholarships to struggling students fullfils it's objectives for continous engagement, support and local aid. As a UJ student, I hope it continues to do the good work it does, makes the possibility for media platforms for freedom of expression and story telling.

FINAL REFLECTION

On the 20th anniversary celebration, we relive the dreams that UJ has accomplished through its alumni, I am grateful to be a part and product of this change making institution that prioritizes improvement, growth, supports every dream, innovation and fosters interaction.