DEAR MATRICULANT
As editor, it’s my privilege to bring you this guide at such an important time in your life. The years after school are filled with excitement, possibility and yes, a little uncertainty. Whether you’re planning to study further, take a gap year, or jump straight into work, the choices you make now will help shape your future. That’s why we’ve packed this edition with real advice, practical tips, and career inspiration all written with you in mind.
My hope is that this guide empowers you to make informed decisions, discover new opportunities, and feel confident about the journey ahead.
Warm regards,
Editor, AWSUM Career Guide
WhyChooseStellenboschUniversity?
Ranked in the Top 1% worldwide, SU is all about tackling the future
— from climate change to data science. With five campuses, ten faculties, and a diverse student community, there’s a course and a place for everyone.
Life as a Matie isn’t just about studying. With top sports, vibrant societies, and cultural activities, you’ll grow, connect, and make lifelong friends.
Don’t let money hold you back. SU believes that if you have the potential, you should have the opportunity.
Apply for SU financial aid between 1 July and 30 September 2025
Apply for the NSFAS bursary at www.nsfas.org.za
For help with and assistance during the application process: Visit www.maties.co.za
WhatsApp “hi” to 061 729 8858
Email info@sun.ac.za
The joy of creating dishes, experimenting with flavours, and making people happy is part of the job. And the best part? Chefs are in demand all over the world.
If you love cooking, here’s why becoming a chef could be the perfect career for you:
READ
10 REASONS TO CONSIDER A CAREER IN
CHEFFING
Formanypeople,workisjusta waytoearnmoney—often routineandnotveryexciting. Forchefs,workispassion.
1.CLEAR CAREER PATH
@reallygreatsite
Start as a Commis Chef and work your way up to Executive Chef. Opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, resorts, cruise ships, catering companies, and private events.
2. AN INDUSTRY THAT’S GROWING
People will always eat out, and the hospitality industry is growing every year.
3. WORK ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD
Chefs are needed globally, from fine dining in Paris to cruise ships travelling the Caribbean.
4. SPECIALISE IN WHAT YOU LOVE
From pastry to sushi, you can focus on the cuisine that excites you most.
5. BE YOUR OWN BOSS
Open your own restaurant, start a catering business, or run a food truck.
6. CREATIVE FREEDOM
Plating food and creating new recipes is an art.
7. MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY
Good food brings joy, whether at a wedding or a casual lunch.
8. NEVER BORING
Kitchens are fast-paced and full of energy.
9. FLEXIBLE HOURS
Not a 9-to-5 job shifts can suit early birds or night owls.
10. NO SUIT REQUIRED
Work in your chef whites, not corporate wear.
FIND THE BEST COOKING SCHOOL TO
ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS
Ifyoudreamofsizzlingpans, freshlybakedbread,and beautifullyplateddishes,thefirst stepischoosingtherightcooking schooltomakeithappen.
Notallculinaryschoolsarethesame.Some lookgoodonpaperbutleaveyouunprepared forrealkitchenlife.Othersfocusonlyontheory withoutenoughhands-onpractice That’s whereChefsTraining&InnovationAcademy (CTIA)standsout—givingyouskills, experience,andevena100%employment guarantee.
WhatMakesaGreatCookingSchool?
Agoodchefneedsbothcreativityandsolid technique.AtCTIA,youlearntheartandthe scienceofcooking fromperfectingpastries tocateringforspecialdiets,allwhile maintainingtopfoodsafetystandards
SkillsThatGoBeyondCooking
AtCTIA,you’retrainedtothinklikea professional:readytorunakitchen,leada team,andmakesmartbusinessdecisions.
You’lllearnhowto:
Keephighhygieneandworkplace standards
Followstrictfoodsafetyrules
Planmenusandcostrecipes
Cookwithsustainabilityinmind
Usenumeracyandcomputerskillsfor costingandplanning
Deliverexcellentguestservice
AllCTIAprogrammesareaccreditedbyQCTO, City&Guilds,andHighfield respectednames thatopendoorsinkitchensacrossSouthAfrica andtheworld.
Culinary Schools
Find the school that will take you from Student to Chef
Cullinary Schools in South Africa
Join the Hurst family and let us become your home away from home
30 Years of training excellence
Embark on a culinary adventure with CTIASA's #1 Culinary School
Short courses . Internationally recognised.
Offers World Class Cooking Courses in South Africa
Premier chef school, centrally located in Randburg
READ MORE
TheCapsicumCulinary
Studio‘DidYouKnow?’ series(#1)
Restaurantsorestablishments withsmallerkitchensmay combinepositionsbutthere's typicallyalwaysanexecutive cheforheadchefwholeads everyone.Herearethefivechef levelswithinthehierarchy...
Read more
Acareerinthe hospitalityindustryisa virtualpassporttothe world
Studyingatahospitalityschool providesacomprehensive skillsetincustomerservice, communication,leadershipand adaptability,makinggraduates well-suitedforadiverserange ofcareerswithinthe...
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Tourism:AGrowingCareerPathinSouthAfrica
TourismisoneofSouthAfrica’smostexcitingindustries andit’s boomingagain.In2024,morethan10millioninternationalvisitors cametoourcountry,boostinglocalbusinesses,creatingjobs,and contributingnearly4%to....
Read more
READ
WHY YOUR FUTURE CAREER MIGHT BE MORE THAN JUST ONE JOB
Thejobmarketischangingfast.Youcouldstart studyingforaspecificcareernow,onlyto graduateandfindthatthingshavecompletely shifted.That’swhymorepeoplearepreparingfor portfoliocareers—awayofworkingthatgives youmoreflexibility,variety,andstability.
What’saPortfolioCareer?
Insteadofhavingjustonefull-time job,youworkinmultiplerolesatthe sametime.Thesecouldinclude:
Amainjob
Asidehustleorfreelancework
Part-timeprojectsoryourown smallbusiness
It’scommonincreativeindustries,but nowyou’llfindportfoliocareersin tech,education,business,andmany otherfields.
Examples:
Softwaredeveloper+blogger
Photographer+graphicdesigner
Consultant+universitylecturer
Freelancewriter+podcasthost
WhyConsideraPortfolioCareer?
Morestability–Ifonejobends, youstillhaveotherincome streams.
Flexibility–Youcanchoosewhen, where,andhowyouwork.
Skillsforlife–You’llpickupnew skillsthatworkacrossdifferent industries.
Moreearningpotential–You’re notlimitedtoonepaycheque. Followyourpassions–Workin morethanoneareayouenjoy.
Testdifferentcareers–Try differentrolesbeforecommitting toonepath.
HowtoStartBuildingOne
1.Startsmall–Takeonaside hustleorfreelanceproject alongsideyourstudiesor mainjob.
2.Learnnewskills–Tryshort coursesoronlineclassesin areasoutsideyourmainfield.
3.Networksmart–Connect withpeopleinindustriesyou wanttoexplore.
4.Thinklong-term–Lookfor skillsyoucantransfer betweenroles.
Tip: Thegigeconomy, remotework,andnew techtoolsmakeit easierthaneverto buildaportfoliocareer. Startexploringnow, andyoucouldcreate acareerthat’sflexible, exciting,andfutureproof.
MaketheMostofUniversityOpenDays
Open Days are the best way to see if a university is the right fit. You’ll get to explore the campus, meet lecturers, talk to students, and check out the vibe before making a big decision.
Top Tips:
Focus on courses linked to your interests
Try career counselling if it’s offered Walk around and picture yourself there
Ask questions staff and students are there to help
�� Use this chance to get the info you need to make the right choice for your future.
NEEDLING IT: THE PROCEDURE, BENEFITS AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES OF MICRONEEDLING
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a safe, noninvasive skin treatment that uses fine needles to create tiny “micro-injuries” in the skin. This stimulates collagen, improves skin texture, reduces scars and pigmentation, and helps skincare products absorb better. The result? Firmer, smoother, healthier-looking skin.
How it Works:
1.Skin is cleansed and numbed with a cream.
2.A serum is applied and the microneedling device is gently glided across the skin.
3.After treatment, calming products are used to soothe the skin.
4.Recovery takes 1–2 days
CAREERS IN SPORT: MORE THAN JUST PLAYING THE GAME
If you love sport, you don’t have to stop when school ends and you don’t have to be a professional athlete to build a career in the sports world. The sports industry is massive, covering health, performance, business, media, and even technology.
Career Paths in Sport
Sports Science & Biokinetics – Help athletes recover from injuries, improve performance, and stay fit.
Coaching & Education – From schools to professional teams, coaches inspire and shape the next generation.
Sports Management – Behind every team or event is a team of organisers, marketers, and managers.
Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine – Work with doctors and therapists to keep athletes healthy.
Sports Journalism & Media – Cover the action, tell the stories, and bring the games to life on TV, radio, or social media.
Event & Facility Management – Plan tournaments, manage stadiums, and run large-scale events.
Technology in Sport – Data analysts and performance tech specialists are in demand to track and improve results.
Benefits of Microneedling
Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars
Improves skin tone and texture
Helps fade pigmentation and stretch marks
Boosts collagen and skin cell renewal
Enhances product absorption
Minimal downtime and safe for all skin types
Study Microneedling
To enrol in microneedling, students at Beauty Therapy Institute (BTI) must first complete foundation modules like:
Manual Facials (skin theory & treatments)
Cosmetic Science & Chemistry (understanding products & ingredients)
Microneedling (practical training)
Careers in Advanced Aesthetics
The beauty and aesthetics industry is growing fast, with opportunities in:
Advanced skincare clinics
Working alongside medical professionals
Opening your own beauty business
With 20 colleges across Africa, BTI is shaping beautiful careers by empowering students with advanced skills, business knowledge, and the confidence to succeed.
TipforFuture
Somatologists: Startlearningaboutskin, wellness,andclientcare early.Readuponskincare ingredients,practisegood communicationskills,and staycuriousaboutscience. Somatologyblendsbeauty, health,andmedical knowledge—soabalance ofpassionand professionalismwillsetyou apart.
Why Choose Sport as a Career?
Passion Meets Profession – If you love the game, it won’t feel like “just a job.”
Global Opportunities – Sport is universal, so your skills can take you anywhere.
Impact – Whether it’s helping a player recover or inspiring kids on the field, you’ll change lives.
Variety – From hands-on physical roles to behind-thescenes planning, there’s something for every personality.
How to Get Started
Study programmes in sports science, management, physiotherapy, or media at universities or colleges.
Gain experience through coaching, volunteering, or interning at local clubs.
Stay active and build a strong knowledge of your sport.
Follow trends in health, fitness, and sports tech the industry is evolving fast.
Sport isn’t only about winning trophies it’s about building a career in a dynamic, exciting industry that connects people worldwide.
Tip
Getinvolvednow!Volunteerasacoach,referee,or organiseratyourschoolorlocalclub.Hands-on experiencelooksgreatonapplicationsandhelpsyou discoverwhichpartofthesportsindustryexcitesyoumost.
TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE SKIES ✈
Aviation is one of the most exciting industries on earth. From pilots and cabin crew to engineers and airport managers, there’s a role for every personality and skill set. Aviation powers global tourism, business travel, and trade and it could be your path to adventure, career success, and financial freedom.
Popular Careers in Aviation
✈ Cabin Attendant (Flight Attendant)
Create a safe, enjoyable experience for passengers. It’s a glamorous job with travel perks, but also hard work safety and people skills come first.
Age requirement: 18–21 (depending on airline)
Height: Usually between 1.60m – 1.85m to reach safety equipment
Key skills: Friendly, calm under pressure, enjoy helping people
�� Aircraft Engineer
Keep planes safe, reliable, and ready to fly. Engineers inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft to the highest standards.
�� Air Traffic Controller
Direct planes in the sky and on the ground to ensure safe take-off, landing, and routes.
Popular Careers in Aviation...
��✈ Pilot
Pilots do far more than “fly the plane.” They handle strict safety checks, weather planning, cargo distribution, and passenger safety. Subjects needed at school: Maths, Science, Geography
Training: Aviation academy + flight hours
License options: PPL (Private), CPL (Commercial), ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence)
Career paths: Airline pilot, cargo pilot, corporate pilot, air ambulance pilot, flight instructor
���� Airport & Airline Roles
Customer Service Agent – the friendly face at check-in and boarding
Cargo Manager – handle cargo operations
Safety Officer – ensure strict safety standards are met
Airport Manager – run airport operations smoothly
Tip: Aviationcareersrequirededicationandpassion. Whetheryou’reflyingplanesorworkingontheground, teamwork,safety,andprofessionalismarealwaysthe toppriority.
Not sure what to study after school?
Your future doesn’t have to be a guess.
1.“Why do I feel lost when others seem to be sure?”
2.“What if I don’t live up to mypotential?”
3.“Will I disappoint myparents and myself?”
4.“What will my peers think of me?”
5.“What if Ineverfigureout what I want to do?”
6.“What if I choose the wrongcareerpath?”
7.“What if I’m notgoodenough?”
8.“Will I besuccessful?”
The solution: Flip Doubt into Direction, and Anxiety into Action.
NextGenis more than a programme, it’s a self-paced, on-demand journey where learners finally get to focus on the one thing that changes everything: themselves.
Itoffersajourneythatis:
Self-paced and bite-sized
Online and on demand
No classes or assignments
No assessments or exams
Go fast, go easy, go slow
Take 5 days, 5 weeks, 5 months+
FROM CLASSROOM TO CAMPUS: HOW TO SMASH
YOUR FIRST YEAR AT UNI
Startinguniversityisahugemilestone.It’s exciting,butitcanalsofeeloverwhelming.Many first-yearsstrugglebecausethey’renotreadyfor thebigjumpinindependence,responsibility,and workload.
DrLindaMeyerfromIIERosebankCollegeandOxbridgeAcademy sharestipstohelpyoumakethemostofyourfirstyearandavoid thecommonpitfalls.
1. MANAGE YOUR TIME LIKE A PRO
Uni is different from school no one checks if you attend lectures, but skipping them can sink your grades fast. Create a schedule that includes classes, study time, assignments, and social activities. Staying organised means less stress and more freedom to enjoy campus life.
2. GET INVOLVED
Uni isn’t just about classes. Join clubs, sports teams, or societies. You’ll make friends, build networks, and find mentors who can shape your future. Attend orientation events and study groups the more you get involved, the easier it is to settle in.
3. USE CAMPUS RESOURCES
Most universities offer free help like tutoring centres, libraries, counselling services, and career guidance. Find out what’s available early so you know where to go when you need support. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
4. LEARN THE TECH
From online libraries to learning management systems, tech will be a big part of your studies. Spend time exploring your student portal and make sure you have the right equipment to stay on top of your coursework.
5. KEEP LIFE BALANCED
The freedom of uni life can lead to late nights, poor eating, and burnout. Build healthy habits now balance your studies with personal time and social life. A healthy routine will help you handle challenges and opportunities as they come.
Tip: Approachyourfirstyearwith curiosityanddetermination. Universityisyourchanceto explore,grow,andprepareforthe career—andlife—youwant.
READ MORE
AStudentGuideto UnderstandingGBV RisksatUniversity
Gender-basedviolence(GBV) isaseriousissueinSouthAfrica, andsadly,manyuniversity studentsareatrisk.Movinginto anewenvironment,adjustingto independence,andjoiningnew socialcirclescanmake studentsmorevulnerable...
Read more
DataScience:Powering theDigitalEconomy
Dataiseverywhere—fromyour TikTokfeedtohowbanksspot fraud.Andthepeoplewho makesenseofitall?Data scientists.They’reinhuge demandworldwide,including hereinSouthAfrica,makingthis oneofthehottestcareersinthe digitaleconomy.
Read more
FromClassroomstoBoardrooms:WhyEntrepreneurial LearningMatters
SouthAfrica’ssmallbusinesses(SMMEs)playamassiveroleinthe economy.TheygenerateoverR5trillioneveryyearandprovidework formorethan80%oftheworkforce.Buthere’sthecatch:upto80%of themfailwithinfiveyears–oneofthehighest....
Read more
Yacht Academies
Equip yourself with yacht courses
How to launch my Yachting Career?
MCA Recognized, World Leading Superyacht Academy -
Top-tier sail training on all levels in Hout Bay
VYFully accredited RYA and SAS Training Centre
Provides professional RYA/MCA Superyacht crew training.
Offers Superyacht Crew Training, International Powerboat Courses from Beginner to Advanced in Cape Town
Operated by ex super yacht crew who understand what it takes
READ
HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM A GAP YEAR
Agapyearisn’tjustabouttakingtimeoff it’sachanceto grow,explore,andsetyourselfupforthefuture.Youcangain independence,discovernewcultures,andevenbuildskills thatwillhelpyourcareer.
A gap year isn’t just about taking a break. Done right, it can help you grow, discover new cultures, and gain skills that will give you a head start in your career.
BUDGET FIRST
Travel is exciting, but it’s also expensive — especially with flights, visas, and the weak rand. Before you pack your bags, make a budget that includes:
Airfares & visas
Travel insurance (a must-have!)
Accommodation & meals
Local transport
A backup fund for emergencies
Knowing your costs makes it easier to plan and reduces stress while travelling.
WAYS TO FUND YOUR TRIP
Work before you go to save up.
Work while travelling — jobs like au pairing, seasonal hospitality, or internships can pay for living costs.
Volunteer or join cultural programmes often these cover food and accommodation even if they don’t pay a salary.
SHOULD YOU USE AN AGENCY?
If planning everything yourself feels scary, a trusted agency can:
Help with visas and paperwork
Connect you to safe employers
Arrange accommodation and support
Offer cultural orientation
�� Always check an agency’s reputation before paying fees.
STRETCH YOUR BUDGET ABROAD
Open a travel-friendly bank account with low fees
Use budgeting apps to track spending
Grab student discounts on transport and attractions
Buy passes or tickets in advance for cheaper prices
Gap year
One Year. Endless Possibilities.
Gap year options for school leavers
A one year programme for post matriculants
Join us for a Gap Year like no other Adventure, fun, personal growth and development await!
Specializing in the creation of internship opportunities in CPT.
Award-winning volunteer abroad program where you can protect our planet
Dedicate a year to build a relationship with GOD
Structured discipleship program with a heart to Encounter and Empower in Jeffreys Bay.
HOW TO BECOME A PROPERTY PRACTITIONER
Doyouseeyourselfhelpingpeoplefindtheirdreamhomesor investmentproperties?Becomingapropertypractitionercould bethecareerforyou.Itoffersgrowth,goodearningpotential, andthechancetomakearealimpactinpeople’slives.
Here’s how you can get started:
STEP 1: START AS A CANDIDATE
Your journey begins by joining a registered real estate agency as a Candidate Property Practitioner. The agency will register you with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) and you’ll get your Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC).
Thejobmarketischangingfast.Youcouldstart studyingforaspecificcareernow,onlyto graduateandfindthatthingshavecompletely shifted.That’swhymorepeoplearepreparingfor portfoliocareers—awayofworkingthatgives youmoreflexibility,variety,andstability.
From there, you’ll work under experienced mentors while studying towards your NQF4 certification. This first year is all about learning on the job, gaining experience, and building your portfolio.
STEP 2: COMPLETE YOUR NQF4
The Occupational Certificate: Real Estate (NQF Level 4) covers everything from the Property Practitioners Act and valuations to business plans and day-to-day operations. This gives you the foundation to work confidently and professionally in the industry.
STEP 3: PASS THE EXAMS
Once you finish your NQF4, you’ll need to write two exams:
EISA (External Integrated Summative Assessment)
PDE4 (Professional Designation Exam)
These tests prove you have the skills to work successfully and ethically as a property practitioner.
STEP 4: BECOME A FULL-STATUS PRACTITIONER
After passing PDE4, you’ll upgrade from Candidate to Full-Status Property Practitioner. This boosts your credibility and opens doors to bigger opportunities. From here, you’ll keep learning through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to stay sharp and up to date.
WhytheAgencyYouChooseMatters
Notallpropertyagenciesarethesame.Lookforonethatoffers: Training&mentorship–Learnfromthebest. Techtools–AI-drivenmarketingandlead-generation systemsmakeyourjobeasier.
Astrongbrand–Beingpartofatrustednamehelpsyou buildcredibilitywithclients.
Supportiveculture–Realestatecanbetough,sofinda teamthatbacksyouup.
AtJustProperty,candidatesareguidedeverystepoftheway withstructuredtraining,mentorship,andaccesstoindustryleadingtools.
Real estate is more than a job it’s a career that rewards hard work, people skills, and determination.
Field Guide
