Phuti Kgomo, a recent BCom Accounting graduate from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), credits the institution’s high academic standards with instilling the discipline and grit she needs to succeed in the corporate world.

“UJ didn’t just give me a degree. It shaped me as a whole person. Academically, UJ challenged me and gave me a strong technical foundation in accounting that I know will carry me through my career. The workload was heavy, the standards were high, and the deadlines taught me discipline.”

She adds that beyond the classroom, the institution taught her resilience.

“I learned how to manage pressure during test weeks and exams. I learned how to work with different people during group assignments. I learned how to fail at something, go back, ask for help, and try again until I understood it. UJ didn’t make it easy, and I’m grateful for that, because it prepared me for real life.”

Behind every successful graduate is a support system, and Phuti is quick to acknowledge the pillars that kept her grounded during her studies: her faith, her family, and her own daily habits.

“I cannot tell my story without mentioning God. My faith carried me through every semester. There were moments I felt overwhelmed, but prayer, scripture, and trusting God’s plan kept me going. All glory to Him for seeing me through. I also owe so much to my parents. Their sacrifices, prayers, and constant encouragement were my safety net. They believed in me even when I doubted myself. This degree is as much theirs as it is mine.”

Phuti emphasises that true success comes from everyday dedication.

“The third thing that got me through was consistency. Showing up every day. Attending lectures even when I was tired. Submitting every assignment. Studying a little bit every day instead of cramming. Consistency beats talent every single time in my journey.”

Phuti shares some words of wisdom and has practical advice for current students navigating their own academic paths at UJ. Her first tip is simple: show up.

“If I could speak to anyone currently doing their BCom Accounting or any other course at UJ, I would tell them to attend their classes. Seriously. Lectures matter. You pick up things in class that you won’t get from just reading slides,” she says. “Your lecturers give hints, context, and clarity that saves you hours later.”

She also stresses the importance of mental well-being and utilising the institutional support available to students.

“Perseverance is the difference between graduating and giving up. Ask for help early, because UJ has tutors, consultation times, and support. Use them. You’re not supposed to know everything on your own. Manage your time well, because accounting is content-heavy and if you leave everything for the week before exams, you’ll drown. Make a timetable and stick to it. Take care of yourself too. Sleep, eat, and rest. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and burnout is real during degree season. Most importantly, keep your ‘why’ in front of you. Remember why you started.”

That ‘why’ is what will get students through tough times and tests that don’t go their way.

“Don’t quit. Take the loss, learn from it, and come back stronger next time.

 For me, it was to make my parents proud and to serve God through my career. Your ‘why’ will pull you through hard days.”

As she looks ahead to a bright future, Phuti is filled with deep gratitude for the environment that allowed her to grow into her full potential.

“UJ was more than a university to me – it was a training ground for life,” she concludes. “I walked in as a student and I’m walking out as a graduate, but more importantly, as a stronger, wiser, and more faith-filled person. Thank you to every lecturer, tutor, and staff member who played a role in my journey. Thank you, UJ, for shaping me.”

Phuti Kgomo’s journey is an example of UJ’s core values in action. From the day students walk onto campus, the university addresses their diverse needs through accessible academic support, mentorship programmes, and wellness initiatives. Phuti’s story proves that when an institution invests in the whole person, students do not just graduate, they emerge ready to lead, adapt, and transform society.