On 1 February, the University of Pretoria (UP) issued a warm welcome to new and returning students with a commitment to the catchphrase #ChooseUP. Students should feel secure in their decision of studying at UP because at Tuks, “your success matters”. UP is one of the world’s most reputable universities, and studying at such a prestigious institution will open various doors and create opportunities. Not only does UP have educational resources, but it also provides arts, culture, and sporting activities to provide opportunities for students to become well-rounded.
UP has its unique advantages, some of which include special ways of teaching and learning that prepare you for life after tertiary education. There are always additional notes, tips, and resources available to students through each faculty or at one of UP’s eleven libraries, such as the Merensky 2 library, the O.R. Tambo Law Library, and the Mamelodi Library among others. Students can make use of the libraries’ computers which are accessible using your UP login details. They also have quiet places for you to study, or to make use of the discussion rooms so that you can study with friends or finish group assignments. The librarians are also available to help, and the libraries offer training on anti-plagiarism, the acknowledgement of resources, assignment writing, the use of databases, and more. First-year modules serve as a way to educate you in the skills you will need to help you throughout your studies.
By studying at this institution, you have decided to choose the UP Way. This embodies UP’s excellence, perseverance, respect, diversity, and much more. It is a part of UP’s culture and it emphasises making a difference every day. UP prioritises learning and teaching by making use of innovative and collaborative techniques so that students can apply their skills and knowledge in practical, real-world contexts. UP emphasises innovation through world-class research by using creative transdisciplinary thinking. At UP, you will strive to make an impact by giving your time and research to transform communities for the better. You will also follow strong ethical principles and embody the values of kindness, tolerance, and hard work.
UP provides you with a support network that includes lecturers, tutors, mentors, faculty advisors, and student administrative staff. There is also the “Ready for Work” programme which provides free online modules that aim to get students ready for their first job and future employment. You will also become familiar with Career Services by seeing their building on campus and receiving communication from them. Career Services offers various resources and programs such as individual appointments, workshops, webinars, and CV/resume writing assistance. The aim of these services is to prepare students for the job market and future career opportunities.
When asked by PDBY what advice they would give to first-year students so that they can build a strong foundation for their career while at UP, Career Services said that students should “book appointments early” and “engage actively in events”, as their office can get “busy, especially during peak hiring season”. By going to these events, you will gain “a better understanding of the job market”.
Beyond academics, you are provided with a student life that will be surrounded by UP’s beautiful gardens and museums, such as the Javett Arts Centre and the Old Arts Museum. There are also numerous events to welcome new students and provide a diverse student culture and experience, such as Rag, various residence events, 1nSync, and Acapella.
