It's Women's Month and the Faculty of Education celebrates the remarkable women in the faculty. Simone Alexander is in charge of the Department of Education Policy Studies' administrative tasks. She tells more about herself.
Please tell about your current position and responsibilities in the faculty.
I am responsible for the entire Department of Education Policy Studies' administrative tasks and do a variety of administrative tasks. This includes finance and student administration.
How long have you been at the Faculty of Education?
I started working at the Department of Education Policy Studies on 1 March 2016, but have been working at the University for 13 years.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy working in a collaborative space. Every day is different, and I appreciate the challenge of constantly learning and adapting to new situations.
Who or what inspires you to grow and achieve?
My husband and children inspire me.
Any advice for women struggling to balance work and personal life?
It is important to realize that one person's 'work-life balance' may look different to another person's, because it is something that each person can handle and manage differently. It is beneficial to have a good balance between your work and personal life, because then you will simply be more productive and your stress levels will decrease. If you manage to maintain a good balance between work and your personal life, you will be happier, healthier and more focused. Learn to say NO, limit non-essentials and consider your day's schedule.
Please tell about hobbies or activities you enjoy outside of work.
I enjoy art and gardening in my spare time.
Please tell about one of the best things that has ever happened to you.
So many beautiful, good and blessed things have happened to me, but the best was the birth of my children.
Any words of wisdom to share with staff?
"Take risks. If you win, you'll be happy. If you lose, you'll be wise."