If one stays disciplined and works hard toward her goal, she is destined to succeed, Tamika Colbeck illustrates exactly that. Her Dean’s Merit Award was not a surprise to her, instead, it was a goal set and achieved.
‘’It is something I had been working hard to achieve, to try and get over 75% ever since my second year at the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Passing extremely well was something I had envisioned. Although I was a bit surprised to get the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award, I knew I would do well. I just wanted to do my best and try my hardest and I did,’’ she said.
The 22-year-old, hailing from Wentworth, Durban, Colbeck graduated Cum Laude with her Diploma in Public Relations and Communications Management with the Dean’s Merit Award at the Olive Convention Centre, Durban on Monday, 27 May 2024.
However, Colbeck expressed displeasure with how her course was perceived, claiming that some people believed that this was one of the easiest courses to study which was not the case according to her. “Some say it is an easy course, but I say communication is never easy. Barriers and words can be misunderstood,’’ she said.
Nevertheless, Colbeck felt that her course and journey at DUT have exposed her to numerous opportunities. “I have had the pleasure of gaining experience in the working field and building an interesting network of lecturers and students,’’ she said.
Moreover, she is glad that she chose Public Relations as her choice of study, and she hopes to work for a reputable company one day, to learn from seasoned professionals and then start her own business in the future.
“At first, I did not know what Public Relations was about, but I put it as my first choice. It may have been an act of God, but I am happy I chose it,’’ she said.
Sharing DUT ENVISION2030 principles and values that she associates with, Colbeck said: “I have always been a transparent and honest individual about all aspects of my life. My mom says I am like an open book,’’ she said.
Colbeck also revealed that she is planning to attain her PhD soon. “I know I can do it and I am someone who starts and finishes something,’’ she concluded.
Pictured: Tamika Colbeck
Vukani Langa
