As the semester ended, students breathed a collective sigh of relief, eager to leave behind the pressures of academic life. For many, the long vacation was a time for rest and routine. But for Jude Mawufemo Fiagbe, a third-year Media and Communication Studies student, it became an opportunity to explore, learn, and grow.

After attending the African Youth Festival in Ethiopia Jude immersed himself in Ethiopia’s rich culture, visiting historical sites and savouring local cuisine. The trip offered a much-needed escape from the academic stress that had built up over the months.

“That first week after traveling was pure relaxation. The weather had changed, making it even more comfortable, and I finally had the chance to release all the stress from school,” he recalled.

A week after returning, Jude shifted gears and began his first internship at the University Relations Office (URO) at KNUST. Eager to experience the corporate world, he embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.

“I was just as excited about my internship as I was about traveling because it was my first time, and I wanted to know what the corporate world was like,” he said.

According to Jude, the internship provided invaluable hands-on experience. The practical knowledge, exposure to corporate dynamics, and the responsibilities he took on contributed significantly to his growth.

“I got the opportunity to learn on the job, and that was very important for me,” he explained.

Reflecting on his journey, Jude views his long vacation as a transformative period. The blend of travel and work gave him a perfect balance of relaxation and professional development, setting the stage for his future aspirations.

Story by Abena Agyeiwaa Brefo (URO) | Photos by Isaac Kwaku Duah (URO)