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Meet Marinda Steenkamp | Notable Achiever
In recognition of students who stand out from the crowd, our Notable Achievers campaign highlights a top-performing student each week.
Marinda who is a past University of Cape Town Interior Design online short course student, recently completed her second course, the University of Cape Town Web Design online short course and has been chosen as our Notable Achiever for maintaining a high standard throughout the course.
Her Success Manager, Bridget Kalakoda, describes Marinda as a student who embraced every challenge with a positive mindset and who thoroughly enjoys being a lifelong learner.
We caught up with Marinda to find out more about her experience, here’s what she had to say:
Why did you decide to take the UCT Web Design online short course?
I’ve worked for a large corporation in the fast changing Information Technology space and recently took a VSP. After thorough research, I decided that the two courses I chose would cover my field of interest and update my IT skills. However, I needed a study method that would suit my responsibilities being married and having a son in grade 12. We live approximately 200 km to the closest city, thus on-line studying was the ideal solution for me.
What were your concerns before enrolling on the UCT Web Design course? How were your concerns alleviated and why?
I was concerned about the specifications of the computer needed, but the links for the software needed were shared at the start of the course and assistance and advice were given by the head tutor, coach and fellow students on the discussion group. Thanks to them, I’ve managed to install the necessary software successfully.
What aspects are you enjoying about learning online with GetSmarter?
The structured approach used in the learning material gave me a sense of direction as I knew what to expect each week. I enjoyed the variety of learning material used, namely videos, notes, additional reading, quizzes to test yourself on the theory covered and assignments to test your insight and ability to apply the knowledge gained. I was a bit scared but decided to do a website for a real-life client, this motivated me throughout the course and I could show the site to family, friends and potential clients.
How do you plan to use the skills you learned on these courses in your career?
Applying my knowledge of Interior Design in my own home and assisting friends. Developing web pages for businesses to gain experience and build a portfolio.
Our Student Success Team identified you as being an outstanding student. Why do you think you are a Notable Achiever and what advice can you give to others looking to do this course?
Thank you for the honour. The courses were very technical and required learning of new software. I constantly worked hard and went through the work multiple times. You’ll be surprised by what you can achieve giving your commitment, time and energy. If you believe you can – you can!
Interested in the UCT Web Design online short course?