Some programmes of study at universities
have a compulsory industrial attachment period which one has to complete before
being awarded their undergraduate degree. Some universities offer internal
attachment to their students while some institutions have created partnerships
with companies and organizations that offer placements to students.
Unfortunately, most public universities are overwhelmed with large student
numbers and it is difficult to link each and every student to companies for
attachment.
The
universities usually issue students about to go on attachment with introductory
letters after which the student is left to look for an attachment opportunity
on their own. This can be a very difficult ordeal for a student who is
not well informed. You have no idea where to start or end your search. Some
even end up getting attachment at firms that are not very relevant to their
fields of study.
So how do you go about
looking for attachment opportunities? Here are a few batons to assist any
student preparing for their industrial attachment:
1. Start early
The problem that afflicts many students is the “last minute
syndrome”. Most campus students wait until the very last week of the semester
before beginning their attachment applications. This means that they lack ample
time to think through the companies that they are applying to and why exactly
they are applying there in the first place.
Start your attachment applications way early in the semester,
scout for firms and companies that will add value to your area of study.
Consult your lecturers and seek advice on the best companies. Sometimes
conducting a survey about the various companies can help you get a feel of
whether you’d like to work in such an environs or not. Shortlist the companies
you are sure of and send in your applications 3 or 2 months prior. This way,
you will get feedback in advance and apply to other places if the application
is denied. Besides, most companies offer attachment opportunities to students
on a first-come first-serve basis and you want to avoid the last minute rush.
2. Big is not always better
The biggest mistake that students make is rushing to apply to big-shot
firms, the blue-chip companies.
This includes large private companies and government ministries.
The assumption that the big institution will offer you the best learning
experience is a misconception. Students often overlook smaller firms where they
can get a one-on-one interaction with their supervisors and a greater learning
experience compared to their counterparts in larger firms. If you’re
focused on gaining much from your attachment, do not let a firm’s size fool
you. Go for the experience, not the name.
3. Never look at the
allowances
Students often apply in droves to firms that are known to offer
allowances for their attachés. This means that their basis for attachment
application is the monetary reward instead of the learning experience. Some
companies may not offer any allowances to interns but the learning resources
and experience you will get out of it will be worth much more. That aside, your
main focus should be to create connections and rapport with the professionals
you will be working with in future. These connections will come in handy when
job hunting after you graduate, not forgetting the work experience gained.
Due to last minute rush and laziness, most students are often
tempted to just email their application documents. They then just sit back and
wait for feedback. Much as we’re in a digital era, purpose to deliver your
applications in person. Insist on talking to the person in charge of the
department you’re applying to instead of just leaving the application with the
secretary. Call in and book an appointment to see him/her and talk to them
regarding your desire to be attached at the particular firm. You might be
surprised at just how a little convincing can go a long way in getting you attachment
at your dream firm/company.
5. Network
This bit is very important. Learn to network and create your own
connections. Most people spurn away from attending corporate events and
professional dinners because they are “boring”. Such events are the best places
to meet career men and women pursuing the same field that you’re studying.
Always ensure you clearly make it known that you’re a student pursuing a
certain course and that you are even about to go on attachment. Someone will
most probably give you a business card and ask you to call them to discuss
more. Do not attend such galas and keep to yourself or hang around with
your peers. Network!
Also, join clubs and organizations. Such clubs are often
structured to assist students develop themselves professionally and also offer
great networking opportunities.
All the best.
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