Jessica earned her master’s in Educational Psychology-assessment and learning in 2020 from the University of Alabama. She previously earned her B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Athens State University. 

“I was drawn to this major because it encompassed everything I love learning about. I was always reading and drawn to articles on the learning process itself and wanted to find a degree that added to my current knowledge while expanding that knowledge in a challenging way,” Jessica reveals.

Like most teachers, Jessica is filled with love and passion for her job. Teaching is not just a career but a way of life for her.

“The best part of my day is the love I get from my students, the support and fun supplied by my colleagues, the ability to easily participate in my faith and witness my own children’s school accomplishments and activities first hand,” she says.

Jessica joined Golden Key in 2019.

“Golden Key was the first honor society that I became a member of,” she says. “Becoming a member gave me validation for my hard work and effort I had put into my schooling. It also gave me confidence and pushed me to continue to aim high.”

Jessica exemplifies the strength needed to be a teacher; as she was teaching, parenting and studying for her master’s, her husband was diagnosed with Leukemia and, later on, Lymphoma. Through it all, Jessica kept her head up and found the strength to carry on.

“The Lymphoma required chemotherapy, and I was able to navigate and balance work, school, parenting and wife through all of this. It wasn’t easy, but my faith, prayer, and my children helped,” Jessica admits. “I graduated in the top 15% this past December shortly after my husband’s one year in remission.” 

One of Jessica’s toughest challenges in her career was balancing her and her son’s relationship when she was teaching him in second grade. 

“It took a while and a few setbacks, but once the school year really got rolling, my son and I were able to be teacher-student during school hours and mom-son after. I knew we were doing well when it took a new student over a month before she realized he was my son,” she says. “It was difficult, stressful and challenging in every way, but my son and I both grew so much from the experience. I am happy for it.”

Jessica’s children are an essential part of her life, and she credits her determination and grit to them. 

Jessica says, “My children are my motivation and inspiration because I know that by modeling for them what it means to be a good student, or to work through stressful times that they will strive to achieve good grades and overcome any challenges they themselves may face; later in life.”

Along with all the challenges in Jessica’s life, her strength never wavered, and she continues to achieve greatness.

“Having my family watch me graduate was one of my greatest accomplishments, and I hope that it helped inspire them to pursue a good education as well,” says Jessica. 

Dr. Mogane was studying at Tuks when she had to drop out due to finances, but she didn’t let this stop her and continued to believe in herself. 

“Not many people believe that I was a dropout or that I struggled a lot to be where I am today,” she says. “But then I learned that we never look like our past pains; we only resemble the gift and joy of what we have become. And that for me is an honor.”

Despite dropping out, Dr. Mogane stayed true to herself and redefined her career path, realigning herself from studying medical science to working in functional medicine. 

“I stay true to my passion for helping people no matter what platform or path I am led into,” she explains. “It’s all about discipline and faith in your gift.”

Dr. Mogane has been a member of Golden Key since 2011, an honor she prides herself on and served as a reminder of her achievements while she was out of school.

“It gave me honor,” she says. “After dropping out of varsity, I used the certificate I was given by Golden Key to show potential employers that I am keen on adding more value to any working environment. They took me more seriously when they saw it. It really helped me feel honorable even as an office cleaner. I learned to respect everyone wherever they were because we are all carrying something great in us.”

Dr. Mogane remains a very active member of Golden Key, often giving talks and interviews to encourage undergraduates to participate in a community that “empowers” them.

“To all upcoming Golden Key International Honorary Society Members, take this honor seriously,” she advises. “You do not know how important and valid your dreams are until you become part of a society like this one that reminds you of your passion and worth. Never lose heart, and please stay connected.”

If Dr. Mogane could offer her younger self advice, she would tell herself, “Don’t rush things. Figure out how you want to make use of your passion to make this world a better place, then and only then will you find your peace and have ample resources at your disposal.”

Hemlata has been a teacher since 2000. Thanks to the Australia Award Scholarship, she earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Adelaide at the beginning of this year. She has been a member of Golden Key since 2020. 

“The most significant part of my education in Australia was not having to write examinations as a part of learning assessments,” says Hemlata. “This approach allowed me to explore my creativity and innovation, whereby my understanding horizon was further expanded. I could use my knowledge in real-life situations.”

As Hemlata was studying during the pandemic, she was able to spend more time with her family. 

“The COVID pandemic impacted me positively as I could spend more time meaningfully with my children at home,” Hemlata reveals. “We understood each other better, and we developed a positive and healthy relationship.” 

The pandemic served as a type of blessing for Hemlata and many women worldwide, who often find themselves balancing motherhood and their career. 

“As a woman, I had challenges balancing my professional and personal life; however, support from my husband and other family members enables me to navigate the two,” says Hemlata. 

In addition to being a mother and teacher, Hemlata is a passionate advocate for gender equity and incorporates this passion into her teaching.

“I advocate and dedicate my profession to gender equity because I believe it is crucial towards any kind of development,” says Hemlata.

She uses many different platforms to encourage gender equity and raise awareness of the issue. 

“One of the platforms that I use is celebrating International Women’s Day in my school where I not only involve girl students and female teachers but the boy students and male teachers,” says Hemlata.

Hemlata actively volunteers in her community for the betterment of gender equity. 

“I work as a volunteer in the community to advocate and render social and legal support to the victims of domestic violence who are usually women,” says Hemlata. “I have also attended two different forums in Australia related to women leadership and gender equity, Newday Leadership Summit in Adelaide, South Australia and Australia Award -South and West Asia Scholar Forum in Canberra. I shall continue to push forward my lifelong goal of gender equality, taking insights gotten from such learning experiences.”

Steven has been presented with a barrage of unique opportunities and challenges in his 54 years, from earning his bachelor’s degree in his forties to losing his left leg.

“The most unique and ultimately the best experience for me was to be able to go to University at middle age, not knowing if I would pass, never mind being part of the Golden Key,” he says.

Steven joined Golden Key in 2010 while taking a full course load over three years to obtain his undergraduate degree in sustainable development at Simon Fraser University, working full time and raising his family. 

“I wanted to recognize my commitment and be a positive example for our two boys. Joining Golden Key was the best way for me to show our boys that putting in the hard work to improve yourself and ultimately your family does pay off and being recognized by Golden Key, there is no better honor,” he says. 

In June of 2012, things were looking up for Steven: he had begun a new job in a new city and was ready to move his family to their new house when tragedy struck. 

“I was standing at the back of my car, closing my trunk and saying bye to my friend when his neighbor came flying down the street and drove into me and my car; his vehicle pushed me and my car about eight feet before it stopped,” he shares. “The resulting injuries were my right Achilles was severely torn, I had a ruptured abdomen, about eight inches, and my left leg was amputated at the scene as a result of being crushed between the vehicles.”

Steven spent two weeks in a medically induced coma and seven weeks in a rehabilitation center, re-learning how to walk following his accident. Despite this drastic change, Steven doesn’t let it stop him and maintains a positive outlook on life. 

“I refer to myself as differently-abled as opposed to disabled,” he says. “For me, it’s important that people I work with and my family know that I can do anything that I put my mind to; it may not be the normal way, it may be a different way, but it will be done. It is my gentle way of asking to be treated equal.”

Steven is not shy to mention or show off his prosthetic and chose to feature one of his prosthetics in his Proud GK Member post on Instagram back in January. Steven said he decided to feature his GENIUM X3 as it shows the growth he’s experienced from graduating at 43 to proudly using a prosthetic at age 54.

“My learning is lifelong without any hesitation… I am always looking to improve my gait and try to be as close as possible as I can be symmetrical with both of ‘my’ legs,” he says. “The GENIUM X3 allows me to work towards this. The processor on board is designed to learn how I walk and to aid in me achieving the best possible support I require. Much the same way my degree has aided me in my career.”

Steven is grateful for the care he received during his recovery and now serves on the board of directors for the Spinal Cord Injury of Alberta as a means to give back. He is currently the manager of learning for operations and maintenance for the same company, Suncor, Canada’s leading integrated energy company.

“The company has an amazing Inclusion and Diversity network across the enterprise, and I am very fortunate to be co-leading a group in setting up a ‘Persons with Disability’ network,” he says. “We are seeing a large community and want to provide a safe place for these employees to come and share and learn from others who are encountering similar things/issues.”

A graduate degree can earn you a higher salary, help you move up in your current career or even change careers. Explore your grad school options at an upcoming QS Virtual MBA Event or QS Virtual Grad School Event.

These events are a great opportunity to help you decide if pursuing an MBA or graduate degree is right for you. You’ll have the opportunity to speak online with representatives from top business and grad schools from around the world including Boston U, Cornell Tech, NYU – Tandon, Columbia – Professional Studies, ESSEC, and IE.

At the events, you’ll also get access to $5.8M in scholarships, information sessions and seminars, a professional resume review after attending, and more – all for free!

Find out first-hand whether an MBA or graduate degree is right for you. As part of an exclusive partnership between Golden Key and QS, you can take advantage of free registration!

SPACE IS LIMITED – register now for an upcoming Virtual MBA Event or Virtual Grad School Event.

Practically speaking, there is nothing called a guaranteed formula that will get you the job. But there are some tricks and things to do which ease up the interview process for you and increase your chances of success. 

So, without wasting time and words, let’s have a look at those things:

a) Do proper research

You should learn as much as possible about a company’s services, products, customers, and the competition before going for a job interview there. You may search about them in places such as LinkedIn, Facebook, company websites, and public review websites. 

When the interviewers notice that you have a decent knowledge about their company, it will help you to make an impression in their minds. It will also help you to apply for the perfect job.

b) Prepare interview answers

Interviewers may ask you different generic questions such as ‘Tell me about yourself.’ or ‘How did you find out about us?’. Answer them with confidence and highlight your skills. Give a clear explanation of why you are the most suitable person to get the job.

Some common interview questions are given below:

• Tell us about yourself
• What are your greatest strengths?
• What are your greatest weaknesses?
• How did you know about our company?
• Why do you want to work for our company?
• Why should we hire you?
• How much work experience do you have?
• Why did you leave your last job?
• Can you lead a team? How will you do that?

c) Dress accordingly

If you want to make an impression during a job interview, you must dress professionally. You should wear business attire, if the role is an office job. Suits, shirts, trousers, proper boots for men and a nice dress or a pantsuit for women is a must. Do not wear casual dresses or clothes with vibrant colors. 

You must also maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness during a job interview. Hair and nails should be properly maintained. Men must be clean shaved and women must be made up properly – although, of course, loud makeup should be avoided.

d) Treat the interviewer respectfully

It is one of the most important things that you should maintain during a job interview. Give the proper respect to the interviewers who are conducting your interview. The interview will notice your behavior and ask you interview questions accordingly. So, it is wise to treat them respectfully and build a positive impression.

e) Don’t show up empty-handed

It’s a good idea to carry the following items with you to job interviews:

• Pen and notepad
• Photo ID, etc.
• Several copies of your resume
• Portfolio/work samples
• References 
• Certificates achieved from your previous jobs

f) Don’t be late

Arrive early to the interview place at least 15 minutes before the set start time. Being late can make a bad impression on the interviewer’s mind and negatively affect your chances. Use those extra minutes to brush up your answers, and prepare yourself for the interview.

g) Listen first, then answer

Don’t interrupt when the interviewer is speaking. Always let them speak first, and then you can answer. And when you do, you should answer while maintaining good eye contact, and with a clear voice.

h) Keep your cell phone silent

You should keep your phone on a silent mode, and do not attend any calls or messages during the interview. If you do that, the interviewer might get irritated and insulted.

i) Speak positively about your former employers

Do not express any negativity or anger about your old employer during the interview. You might have left your old job due to some mismanagement in your previous company. But it is unwise to express such bitter feelings and aggression in your current job interview. It may create a negative impression about you which might be bad for your future job.

j) End on the right note

It is important to give interview answers with confidence and truthfulness. Latest but not least, always thank your interviewer after the interview is done. If you end on a positive note, it might increase your chances against the other candidates.

Author’s Bio:
Patricia Sanders is a professional content developer and a regular contributor to debtconsolidationcare. She specializes in the financial niche and is well known for her unique and effective financial tips. To get in touch with her and to get your queries answered, feel free to email at sanderspatricia29@gmail.com.

“In November 2019, I was able to travel to Dubai, UAE for the Open World Powerlifting Championships. I missed a week of classes, but jetlag helped me out that week because I would wake up at 2:00 or 3:00 AM and get any schoolwork done before heading out for the day to explore the city!

“Powerlifting is a sport where athletes complete three attempts each of squat, bench press, and deadlift with the winner of each weight-class having the highest total which is the sum of the best lift from each one. I competed in the 125.6-pound weight class, and my best squat was 479.5 pounds, I finished bench press with 264.6 pounds, and my best deadlift was 435.4 pounds. This gave me a total of 1,179.5 pounds, putting me in 5^th place out of all women in my weight class of all ages, and I received the silver medal for squat and deadlift.

“It was a week-long competition where different weight classes compete on certain days. I was fortunate to compete on Tuesday, so I had the rest of the week to either watch the competition or explore Dubai! My parents and boyfriend were able to join me on this trip to watch me compete, and then we all were able to tour the city together for the next few days.

“We went to the Dubai Mall (the biggest mall in the world), we got to go inside of the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), we went on a desert safari, as well as many other things! In the desert safari, we were able to ride camels and we also went “dune bashing” where a skilled driver took us on a crazy ride through the desert. It was almost like a roller coaster, and of course I was stuck in the middle of the backseat and ended up getting carsick and throwing up! We stopped and once I felt a little steadier, we went sandboarding – which was also a lot of fun! It is basically like snowboarding, but on the sand!

My trip to Dubai was a great experience, and I am thankful that my professors at the time were supportive and flexible of my absence!”

Issa Kabeer is on a hero’s journey.  A graduate student in Diversity Leadership at Temple University, he used to shy away from campus activities before joining Golden Key. Now, Issa sparks the flame within us to become greater versions of ourselves.  As co-president of his local Golden Key chapter and a member of the school’s student parliament, he motivates his fellow students to participate in AIDS walks and literacy programs.  When Issa’s on your team, everyone wins.

Issa dreams of becoming a U.S. ambassador and is inspired by the historic peace-making efforts of the Camp David Accords.  He took time out from GK’s Asia-Pacific leadership summit in Australia to share three surprisingly powerful ways to lead:

Listen and Connect.  

As a chaplain and campus leader, Issa is often the peacemaker.  He says, “Conflicts happen because people don’t listen to each other. Leadership is not focused on being better than someone, but on being present with someone.”  

By listening to what people say, asking questions, and caring about their opinions, you become their champion.  The results are worth the journey!

Flesh out the details.

Working on legislation in the student government taught Issa to target the specifics. His fellow leaders liked his proposal for suggestion boxes where students could share their ideas for change on campus, but they needed the nitty-gritty details. “They want to know where we can put these boxes, who’s going to make them,” he explained. 

An idea is good, but coming up with a step-by-step plan to implement it is the key!

Follow your hero’s journey.

Issa lights up when he shares his excitement about being an ambassador for Golden Key. Through travel grants from GK he has connected with a global family of friends at GK’s leadership summits.  Issa loves to talk about Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey and how it applies to everyone from college students to Harry Potter.  “It’s worth it to go out of your comfort zone. Because that’s the only way you’re going to succeed and make it.”

Take risks.  Go out of your way to meet people who aren’t like yourself.  Challenge yourself to go on your own hero’s journey!

Sonography therefore always seemed the perfect choice for Esaivani, because it is in high demand globally. Therefore, by being a sonographer she plays a pivotal role and gets the chance to make a big difference in many people’s lives.

Esaivani, who was a class representative at her university, learned a lot about leadership and how to take affirmative action. She was therefore not afraid when she was told that she was going to manage the ultrasound department all by herself, but instead she knew that being a leader in her class had gotten her prepared for this exact moment. She knows it is definitely true when they say, “whatever that is going on in your life prepares you for the future”.

Esaivani is a firm believer in challenges and she trust the growth that follows when overcoming them. She is currently working far away from home while finishing her Community Service and Internship year at a community health center in Cape Town, South Africa. She says it is a challenge being far away from her family and friends but knowing that she can make a difference in the fight against COVID-19 helps her to keep on persevering.

We had a little chat with Esaivani on how it feels graduating as a Golden Key member:

How does it feel about graduating from Durban University and what is your next step?

“I am absolutely ecstatic about completing my degree because a lot of sacrifices, hard work and late nights were put in. This field is very demanding, one has to constantly be on their feet and open to adapting and the studying never ends. I was upset because graduation was cancelled due to the current pandemic however I am looking forward to celebrating with my family and friends when I do return home. Right now I am navigating my way through my twenties and I do see myself studying further in the future or exploring other avenues in my field.”

What was your favourite part about being a member of Golden Key?

“I was excited when I received my Golden Key invitation precisely because it’s an absolute delight to be recognised for your hard work and also given the opportunity to promote my field of study. There are so many important mainstream courses that many of us don’t have much knowledge about other than the popular career choices. The opportunity to interact and engage with others allows one to expand their circle and just be proactive in life.”

What is your advice to other GK members who have not yet graduated?

“Keep persevering, be consistent and trust me hard work does pay off. A quote that has resonated with me for most of my life is not from a great politician but from a wrestler, who has been my role model ever since I was 6:

A man’s character is not judged after he celebrates a victory but by what he does when his back is against the wall – John Cena.

To the graduate class of 2020/2021: You have all the tools that you need to progress further; your back will be against the wall numerous times but you must believe that you can move forward. Don’t let anything not even a pandemic stop you from reaching the stars. It’s how we react to what is happening around us that’s most important. As millennials we have so much more to do, the work is not done just yet and a platform like Golden Key gives us the opportunity to make an impact on society and improve our lives for the better.”

This article was written for Golden Key by Julie Poulsen.