Curriculum Vitae

of

Matthew van der Westhuizen

Modified date: 25/06/2016

###

To whom it may concern

I, Matthew van der Westhuizen, am a third year law student and expect to obtain my LLB

degree in 2017. Therefore, I would like to apply for articles for the year 2018 and vacation

programs until then. I plan to do my LLMI (Masters in import and export) once I am able to

do so. In 10 years, I plan to do my MBA (Masters in business administration). Both of these

qualifications can be used to my advantage in a leading law firm.

I wanted to study law for the reason that it is a profession, which enables an individual to

protect and represent individuals in dire need of it.

I see myself as a hard working individual who is easily adaptable to his surroundings and who

thrives under pressure. I see myself as the individual who plays an active role in any given

environment. To me there are more important things in life than money. These things are

power and success. This being the power to help those who are not able to help themselves

which ultimately leads to success. Success to me depends on my attitude towards the law and

the method I use while practising this attitude, however; this is dependent on the ones I

serve. An attorney surrounds himself with individuals whom he can constantly learn from and

possibly assist in any tasks that may arise, by doing so one becomes not only the best but

also remains empathetic towards those who can learn from him.

I am searching for a law firm that is widely regarded as a leading law firm in their respective

field of law. The reason why I am searching for such a law firm is that a firm held in this

regard allows me to build a stable and promising career and provides me with the necessary

resources I need to become one of the best attorneys in South Africa.

I am searching for a firm with a philosophy that will enable me to be a lawyer that I aspire to

be. I have a thirst for knowledge and I am eager to learn. I am searching for much more than

a job, I am searching for an environment where I can thrive; learn different approaches which

I can apply to not only my professional life but also my personal life. I believe that I have

what it takes to work myself up into the upper ranks of the firm and make a career at your

firm.

I am driven and I believe that I can be nothing but an asset to any firm I work at. Doing my

articles at your firm will allow me to develop skills that I do not have and to improve those

that I do have.

Thank you for your consideration.

Kind regards,

Matthew van der Westhuizen

Applicant: Matthew van der Westhuizen.

Position: Article Clerk (Candidate Attorney) for the year 2018 and / or Vacation work

up until the latter year.

Find any other relevant information in the attached C.V

Full names: Matthew

Surname: van der Westhuizen

Date of birth: 30-01-1995

I.D number: 950130 5095 083

Gender: Male

Degree with year: 3rd year LLB

Nationality: South African citizen

Criminal Record: NONE

Passport: South African passport, with access to obtain a British passport

Contact information: contact number- (+27) 79 504 4423

email- matthewvdwesthuizen@yahoo.com

Strengths: Trustworthy, independent, neat,

outgoing, caring, loyal, hardworking and

attentive.

Weaknesses: Detail Orientated, energetic and passionate.

Education:

High school- Matriculated 2013 from Carletonville High school with the following

subjects; English Home language, Afrikaans First additional, Mathematics,

Physical Sciences, Geography, Business Studies and Life Orientation (see

attached statement for results)

University- Currently a third year LLB student at the North-West University,

Potchefstroom Campus.

Leadership:

I served on the RCL (Representative Council of Learners) in Carletonville High

school and achieved honorary colours for said leadership position.

Cultural Achievements:

I was part of the English cultural activities for 2 years where we accomplished

great success. I also received an achievement award for culture.

University Achievements:

I was on the SLCP (Student Law Council of Potchefstroom) sub-committee for

the year 2014/15.

I was a facilitator for first year law students for the year 2014/15.

I also participated in the JUTA NWU inter-campus Criminal Mock trial

competition 2015.

I am currently chairperson of the SLCP for the term 2015/16. This affords me

many duties and responsibilities.

I head a council of eight members who represent the interests of the

law students.

I am also on the board of directors of the Law Faculty.

I also head many debates regarding the transformation process of the

University where law students get to debate the legal aspects of the

process.

I am also a proud member of the Golden Key International Honour Society.

Work experience:

Temporary administrative work in Oberholzer Magistrate Court, Carletonville.

Vacation work at Webber Wentzel law firm, Sandton.

References:

Lecturer responsible for SLCP: Dr. Niel Lubbe

Tel: (+27) 18 299 1032

E-mail: Niel.Lubbe@nwu.ac.za

Lecturer for facilitated module: Ms Michélle Schoeman

Tel: (+27) 18 299 1968

E-mail: michelle.schoeman@nwu.ac.za

Graduate recruitment manager at Webber Wentzel:

Mr Thabang Ratau

Tel: (+27) 11 530 5009

E-mail:thabang.ratau@webberwentzel.com

Attached annexures:

Certificate of modules passed for the years 2014 - 2016.

National Senior Certificate statement.

Written reference from the Executive Dean of the NWU Faculty of Law.

Written reference from Ms Michélle Schoeman.

Reference for vacation work at Webber Wentzel.

Testimonial from Carletonville High school.

Golden Key International Honour Society certificate.

Certified copy of Identity Document.