Determined to Overcome: Renee Ofae
By Delma MANUKI
Renee Ofae graduated as the 2nd top student with a Degree with Merit from School of Communications and Development Studies (SCDS) during the recent Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) graduation.
Whilst she graduated as one of the best students in her course, there were challenges encountered during her studies. Renee said that her biggest challenge was creating a balance between her personal, social, and academic life which she managed to overcome by prioritizing her studies and scheduling other aspects of her life around her academic goals.
During final year, she felt like giving up because she had not secured a placement for Industrial Training, which is a requirement for all Communications students. .
“My academic spirit was dead, and I actually considered withdrawing when week 5 came about. But week 5 was the time that I got a response from an organization (Manolos Aviation) which I’ve reached out to, and worked with them.”
After two weeks of working with Manolos Aviation, I received a call from MRDC who is now my employer. They were ready to receive me for my IT… two placements with exposure to different working environments was motivating enough to continue,” Renee said.
“My mom, my boyfriend, and my family were my biggest support both financially, and emotionally throughout the four years of studies. My family’s prayers for me made me overcome a lot in life.”
Renee’s mom being the proudest mom after the graduation commented and described Renee’s academic journey as ‘Reaping the Fruits of Her Labor’. Throughout Renee’s school days from elementary to university, she always displayed obedience, discipline, independence, resilience, and hardworking. She prioritized her education and was always open-minded to learn new things and loves everyone around her.
“All throughout my studies, I had mentors at the department who were always available to answer my questions and queries.”
Renee’s perspectives changed, and she realized that life should be all about balance.