My name is Judith Stewart, I am a mother of two adult children and have been married for 18 years. I am presently employed as an Administrative Secretary at my denomination’s headquarters office.
In 2003 I enrolled at IUC and initially pursued the degree of BA in Guidance Counselling. Not wanting to be limited in my options, in 2007, I made the decision to switch to the BA in General Studies (with a major in Guidance and Counselling) and graduated in 2008 with a 2nd Class Honours in that programme.
How did you learn about IUC?
At the time, I was a youth leader and also worked with the new converts. These areas allowed me to interface with persons from varying backgrounds with a wide range of challenges. I wanted to ensure that I was adequately equipped to help these individuals work through their issues and so in consultation with my Pastor’s wife she told me about the institution, then ITLD.
What influenced your decision to choose IUC?
Not only did IUC offered the programme I wanted to pursue on a part-time basis, with flexile payment options, but what made it my preferred choice was the fact that it is a Christian-based institution.
What was most outstanding for you at IUC?
My year group was the first to be pursuing the 120 credits in the Guidance and Counselling programme, so we were somewhat the guinea pigs. We were a small group of about 20 students and became a close knit family. I thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie, robust discussions and social get together.
My group was well regarded as a very disciplined, focused and dedicated unit and we were expected to excel and make the institution proud. Being a part of this ‘elite’ group kept me on my toes and forced me to settle for nothing but the best. In addition, I had some of the most dedicated lecturers you could find anywhere. It was simply awesome.
How has your area of study impacted your life?
My ‘unique situation’ (Guidance and Counselling and General Studies) exposed me to a reservoir of knowledge which I am able to employ on the job, in my area of church ministry, in family life and in interacting with people in general on daily basis.
It was whilst at IUC that I unearth my knack for teaching, which propelled me into the Sunday School Ministry and further led to my involvement in an adult literacy programme, where for two years I taught adults basic Mathematics and English. Also, I had to do literature (which I hated in High School) as a course and surprisingly it was so fascinating that I am not only loved Lit. But I have a great appreciation of history. In my opinion, IUC equipped me far beyond the theoretical and practical knowledge; the hoslitic experiences encountered there have changed my live forever.
Would you consider yourself a success story?
Most certainly! When I started IUC I was so tentative not sure how things would turn out, more so since the last time I was in a classroom setting was some 13 years back. However with the help of God, my family and all those who believed in and supported me I finished well. Today, I have an insatiable quest for knowledge and for helping others to grow holistically, and I can say wither a doubt that IUC contributed immensely to this passion.
Where do you see yourself academically 5 years from now?
I want to pursue my Masters degree in Life Long Learning/Adult Literacy.
I understand you received a special award at the end of your study. What was this?
I received the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Research (General Studies). Research was another surprising area that I developed a love for. My final research project wetted my appetite for this field and gave birth another talent, which I guess was buried inside.. Since IUC, I have helped a number of persons, both at the High School and Tertiary levels, in this area. Thanks IUC!!!.
What words of encouragement do you have for current IUC students?
Make use of the opportunities that will present themselves; make your experiences count. Never limit your scope for knowledge and seek to obliterate any obstacle that threatens to thwart your drive to this end.