Vuyo Hlabangana

IIE Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communication
The IIE’s Varsity College Cape Town
GRADUATED CLASS OF 2015
Company: Ogilvy & Mather

About the position

This job is more like a learnership. I am able to learn more about the industry and to establish where exactly in this industry I would be more comfortable.

Is your qualification relevant to your job?

Yes, it is because it is in line with my personality and interests. Initially I had no idea what I wanted to study, however after having weighed all the pros and cons and deciding to proceed with this qualification, I am positive that this is the right field for me.

The reason I wanted to be part of Ogilvy’s graduate programme was because I still wanted to learn more about the industry. I understand the importance of gaining practical knowledge which will complement the textbook knowledge I have gained, as this will help me gain a wider perspective of the industry. I had applied for other permanent jobs as well, however had to decline offers received in order to take up this opportunity.

I did not want to chase the salary as I felt it more important to establish knowledge and experience first.

What are your future career plans?

I see myself possibly continuing my career at an international level within the next five years.

What was the one thing that stood out for you about Varsity College?

It was the small classes which allowed me to interact and build long-lasting relationships with my lecturers and classmates.

What advice could you give to other students who are looking for or about to embark on their first job?

I would say to others that there is no such thing as a job that is beneath you, and to not allow anyone to be the master of your own destiny. Many people told me that they thought I was capable of securing a higher paying job than this but that was not what I wanted; I choose to learn more while I am still young then I will reap the rewards of a higher paying job later. I came across a beautiful article by American university student, Mike Eads, who said, “Life is neither a marathon nor a sprint, it is both. It is a combination of a series of sprints and marathons. Our lives are full of opportunities to prepare for both extremely short, high intensity bursts (sprints) and more drawn out efforts (marathons).