By Patience Among
As Uganda Christian University (UCU) prepares to send off another group of graduates this month, one former student reflects on her journey, sharing heartfelt advice and experiences for those about to step into life beyond the graduation cap.
Elizabeth Abukui, graduated last year with a Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality and is currently working at Pioz Place Hotel located in Kitikifumba, Kira along Shimon road. She describes her graduation as one of the most unforgettable moments of her life filled with both joy and uncertainty.
“I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and excitement,” she says, recalling graduation day. “Wearing the new gown, hearing my name called, my family cheering—it was like a dream come true,” she adds
Graduation, she recalls, was a mix of emotions; there was pride because she had made it, relief that it was finally over, but also a little fear of what she was stepping into. Regardless of the various feelings she had, it was one of the best moments of her life, she says.
Almost a year into post-university life, Akubui is open about the challenges that follow the ceremony. While academic success is worth celebrating, she admits that the transition into the job market is not as smooth or immediate as many might expect.
That moment of joy was soon followed by months of uncertainty. For a long stretch, Akubui submitted job applications to different hotels and organisations in the tourism and hospitality sector. Four times, she was called for interviews only to receive rejection emails afterward.
“The rejection after rejection hit harder than the last. It wasn’t just professional rejection, it became personal. I started asking myself if I had wasted my time,” she says. “You graduate thinking opportunities will open up, but no one warns you what it feels like when doors don’t.” she shares candidly.
What made it harder was watching many of her friends get jobs almost immediately. “I was happy for them, but I couldn’t help feeling left behind. I had to scroll through social media and see their updates. First day at work and I was still at home,” she explains. “It felt like life was moving for everyone but me.”
Akubui says that patience and perseverance are key in today’s competitive environment, especially in the job market. She urges graduates not to compare their journey with others. “Trust yourself, trust your abilities and know that you are not alone,” she encourages.
She also advises them to stay pursuant given that the job market is rugged. “The jobs will come. You’ll get rejected a bunch of times, but keep trying.” Akubui is confident about this, because after months of struggle, everything changed with one phone call. She finally got the job she had prayed and waited for.
She expresses her gratitude to UCU for playing a central role in her growth. “I want to sincerely thank UCU for shaping me into who I am today,” she said. She recalls being shaped not only by lectures, but also values she learnt including punctuality, presentation, faith, and professionalism.
“Those chapel devotions and community worship helped me to get closer to God, those morning classes that demanded we show up sharp and focused, all of it matters when it comes to the job market. UCU taught me how to carry myself with dignity even when things weren’t going well,” she says. She credits the university for helping her build a strong foundation. “I didn’t just leave with a degree. I left with discipline, confidence, and values that helped me get a job.”
As UCU prepares to celebrate this year’s class, Akubui’s experience offers advice and reassurance to hundreds of hopeful graduates. While the path ahead may be uncertain, her journey proves it is also full of possibility.
