Stellenbosch University
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Inspired by people: Lorraine van As
Author: Faculty of Education
Published: 19/08/2024



It's Women's Month and the Faculty of Education celebrates the remarkable women in the faculty. Lorraine van As is the Senior Secretary at the Department of Curriculum Studies. She tells more about herself.

Please tell about your current responsibilities in the faculty.

As Senior Secretary, I am responsible for, among other things, ordinary secretarial work, administration around tests and Master's and Doctorate degree applications.

How long have you been at the Faculty of Education and where were you before that?

I have been with the faculty for 23 years - since 2001. I was previously with the Bureau for University and Continuing Education from 1987 – 1997 and then with the Division of Marketing and Communication.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The staff is my saving grace, the support if one needs it is remarkable. It is also pleasant if you can help a student and the person is really grateful - a nice e-mail makes my day. The friendliness and willingness of other colleagues on campus to help if you experience a work crisis is also valuable.

Who or what inspires you to grow and achieve?

People inspire me. If a person stands out and is energetic, it helps me to be the same.

Any advice for women struggling to balance work and personal life?

It's hard these days, but I believe that trying to relax after work by doing things that distract your attention helps to just push the day's problems aside and start again the next day.

Please tell about hobbies or activities you enjoy outside of work.

If there was more time, I would like to do more, such as getting involved with the Animal Welfare. At this stage it is gardening and housework, but it again provides another way of relaxation to, for example, plant something and see how it grows.

Please tell about one of the best things that has ever happened to you.

I'm just happy to still be here. Every day is an experience, mostly good.

Any words of wisdom to share?

Patience is important. More communication not only regarding work, but general interest in people's activities is important.