Ellen’s academic journey began at the University of Cape Town, leading her through diverse life experiences across the Free State and even as far as New Zealand, where she lived for two years.
Today, she proudly teaches Communications to first-year students at Mandela University’s George Campus, engaging with students from Higher Certificate, Diploma, and BCom programmes.
A typical day at Mandela University
“My day as a lecturer is both structured and dynamic,” Ellen says, reflecting on her daily routine. Mornings are dedicated to teaching, where she interacts with students from various courses, nurturing their academic growth.
The remainder of her day is spent preparing course materials and maintaining the Moodle site, a key component of her blended learning approach.
This balance between face-to-face teaching and digital preparation allows Ellen to stay connected with the evolving needs of her students, ensuring that her teaching remains relevant in an increasingly digital world.
The inspiration behind my academic journey
Ellen’s career is a rich tapestry woven from her experiences in journalism and online content creation, but it is her time at Mandela University that she considers the most rewarding.
“I began this journey once my children were in high school, and I’ve seen significant changes in my teaching methods,” she notes, particularly emphasising the shift to blended learning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The small, close-knit classes on the George Campus have allowed Ellen to adapt and grow as an educator, making this chapter of her career the most fulfilling yet.
Personal and professional growth
“It may sound cliché, but my time at the George Campus has profoundly shaped me as both a person and a teacher,” Ellen shares, acknowledging the influence her students have had on her.
Teaching has evolved from a profession into a transformative experience, one that continues to challenge and inspire her daily. The interactions with her students, their questions, and their unique perspectives have enriched her life in ways she never anticipated.
The joy of teaching
One of Ellen’s greatest joys as a lecturer is witnessing the gradual transformation of her students. “Over time, they begin to embrace the structured approach I bring to the classroom,” she explains.
By midyear, the change is palpable—students arrive on time, fully engaged, and committed to their learning. This evolution, slow but steady, is a privilege to witness, as it signifies their recognition of the opportunities before them.
While Ellen may not have a shelf full of awards, her greatest achievement lies in the success of her students. “It’s not about personal recognition,” she says. “It’s about fostering an environment where students can blossom.” Over the years, Ellen has watched young individuals realise their potential and thrive in her classes, a testament to the impact of her dedication.
Ellen hopes that her unwavering commitment to education will inspire younger academics and students who look up to her. “I cannot definitively say how much of an impact I’ve had,” she admits, but the positive feedback from past students and consistent attendance in her classes speak volumes. Her influence, though subtle, is undeniable.
Throughout her career, Ellen has been fortunate to encounter exceptional teachers who left a lasting impression on her. “As a student, I could always recognize commitment and passion in a teacher,” she recalls, traits she strives to emulate in her own teaching. Knowing the difference a dedicated teacher can make, Ellen has made it her mission to be that guiding force for her students.
As Ellen nears the end of her journey at Mandela University, she hopes that the impact she has made will resonate quietly but significantly. “I still encounter former students who tell me that my no-nonsense teaching style changed their perspectives,” she says with a smile. This, for Ellen, is the most meaningful testament to the difference she has made.
Service to society has been at the core of Ellen’s work. “My commitment to providing well-prepared, interactive, and enjoyable classes is how I’ve served my students and, by extension, society,” she reflects. This labor of love, as she calls it, has been her way of contributing to the greater good, one student at a time.
Although Ellen is not currently involved in community projects outside the classroom, she hopes that her legacy at Mandela University will continue to influence her students in making good choices in the future. This, she believes, is her lasting contribution to the Southern Cape community.
Reflections and advice
As Ellen reflects on her long and fruitful career, the most valuable lesson she has learned is to never back down. “All students deserve firm boundaries,” she advises, emphasising the importance of maintaining these while fostering a positive learning environment.
To those just beginning their academic journey, Ellen offers simple but profound advice: “Know your subject matter and stay current with changes. Speak with your students, not at them, but ensure they feel secure in the knowledge that you are guiding them, even if it feels uncomfortable at times.” This balance, she believes, is key to effective teaching and meaningful student engagement.