Eiffel Corp’s Graduate Programme brings on board five graduates at a time. This gives newly graduated candidates a chance to jump into the work environment, helping them learn new skills through first-hand experiences. For us, this is a win-win scenario, as we also gain valuable input from newly graduated individuals who view our activities from a fresh perspective.
Through our programme, we contribute to the important skills development of graduates, future-proofing their careers. We have also been able to place candidates within relevant roles where it made sense for them and us.
For both Eiffel Corp and the graduates, this has been an enriching experience, building into our future as a company, and the future of these amazing young graduates.
We spoke to some of our graduates who have now become permanent members of the Eiffel Corp team, asking them about their experience at Eiffel Corp and their future plans. Here is what they had to say.
Graduate Mongalo Makhatho
What did you study?
BCom Economics and Finance
Why did you choose Eiffel Corp for your internship?
To be quite honest, I wasn’t aware that I was going to work for a company called Eiffel Corp because I received an email from Tryphina’s company. Alas, in my last year of varsity I wanted to be part of a company that is innovative and is IT-focused, since we are moving in the digital space I found interest in knowing more about the digital space as an entirety and when I spoke to Clare on my second interview, that’s when I knew that this was actually it.
Your first Impressions of the corporate environment and Eiffel Corp:
My first few days starting out at Eiffel Corp, everyone was welcoming and introduced themselves so politely, I was shocked at the amount of kindness I received on my first day and as the week past, I was starting to be more comfortable. When we had our first meeting with Ian, I remember him apologising for not welcoming us well, that was a bit of a shock too because a whole CEO apologising whereas in some companies the CEO is only seen on special occasions. So honestly, Eiffel Corp made it easy for me to adjust or adapt to the corporate environment. So, I would say strange (in a good way).
From Graduate to Intern to Employee:
It has been my first intern job, it was quite overwhelming the first few months because it was information overload. I remember we were expected to do presentations week after week. Which was fun because it enabled me to get out of my comfort zone. As months went by we were then moved in swiftly into our roles and doing what is expected of us. Everything went smoothly because we were guided by our account managers and they would assist us with cold calling and setting up meetings. Close to the end of the year, we were then told to pick which department we would like to work represented in the company, as we will be then made permanent, I couldn’t believe that it only took me or us 6 months to move into our desired roles, I guess with the help of Tryphinah, anything was really possible. In our sessions, she always talked us through becoming more than what we imagined ourselves in being.
What have been your highlights over the past two years?
My highlights in the past year: 1 ) Being in the IT/ Education space. As a recent graduate, it’s only now I understand the importance of digital education. 2) Tryphinah being our coach or having a coach at the very start of my career. She allowed me to tap into what I can become in future and where I can allow my headspace to be in the next coming years. 3) To be a permanent staff member within 6 months of my internship.
Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
In the next 5 years within the company, I see myself being a Key’s Account Manager / Regional’s Account Manager. Outside, a businesswoman.
Graduate Alatha Mseti
What did you study?
Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from University of Johannesburg & Certificate in Fundamentals of Banking from the Charted Institute of Securities & Investment in London, United Kingdom.
Why did you choose Eiffel Corp for your internship?
Eiffel Corp is an incredible company, especially when wanting to work in technology, innovation and all things software. I was impressed that they were partners with one of the biggest educational products in the world, which opens doors to the international landscape.
Your first Impressions of the corporate environment and Eiffel Corp:
The corporate environment has people come and go. It can be hostile if you do not know how to work in a team and with people in general. Eiffel Corp has a fantastic working culture that encourages growth and puts the minds and health of employees first. One of the best things I appreciate about working here.
From Graduate to Intern to Employee:
Graduation was the best day of my life but as the saying goes…what next?
As soon as the contract landed in my emails, I was excited to the highest ever because I was about to enter an entirely different chapter of my life. The internship had opened my eyes to a bigger reality because of the Business Coach, Ms Tryphina Moleke (God bless her very much!). Therefore, the transition to being a permanent employee was quite smooth as I knew that I’m building my career and not just having a job at Eiffel Corp.
What have been your highlights over the past two years?
- Meeting most of the employees in Cape Town while on the Graduate Programme
- Eiffel Corp employing me on a full-time basis within 6 months of working in the company.
Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
Achieving at least 3 passions of mine on my vision board and one of them is being a Digital Media Strategist OR Digital Designer 😊
“What we learn with pleasure we never forget.”
—Alfred Mercier
