Exclusive Interview
INTI : Fresh Grads Do Come Prepared
There is a common misconception that fresh graduates join the working world bleary-eyed and totally oblivious to what is actually happening around them. Accusations of being ignorant, arrogant and worst still, having poor communication skills, are often levelled at fresh graduates.
Well, these accusations may be valid in some cases, but at the same time it does not apply to all fresh graduates. Or at least that’s what Rachel Leow thinks based on her 10-year experience working with students of the INTI Education Group. She is currently Senior Director for International Recruitment and Admissions, and leads the Career Development Centre at INTI College Subang Jaya (ICSJ).
"From my point of view, the students are not over confident; they just need to refine their approach a little. It is not abnormal of them to feel ambitious as they are young and today’s dynamic working environment also places a lot of pressure on them to perform better than average,” said Rachel, who pointed out that while students are aware of what is happening out there, their biggest ignorance concerns the benefits of internship.
"Internship exposes students to everything," Rachel added. "Within a month or two, they learn a lot from the working environment. So much so that when they come back they even boast about their new experiences."
In fact, initially reluctant interns often find themselves overtaken by enthusiasm as they immerse themselves in the day to day work routine and begin to realise their potential within the nation’s workforce. They usually end up heartily encouraging others to take up internship.
Many students have set their minds on what they want to do from the beginning. Rachel noted that almost three quarters of the students starting their first year at ICSJ have a specific career path in mind. Their level of preparedness is also evident from their good performance in academic and co-curricular areas.
"We remind them from the start (on Orientation Day) to get involved in activities beyond the classroom and to build their soft skills early," said Rachel. “Of course, there are those who are unsure of their direction at the onset. These students will be able to bank on the career guidance and assessment available at the college. These free services are not limited to enrolled students but are open to prospective students. They help to redefine their future and career direction."
"After all, we wouldn’t want them to be hopping between programmes and spending more time than necessary on their education although that might be better for us," quipped Rachel.
Preparations are necessary before a student jumps headlong into internship. At ICSJ, students are exposed to the real world through regular interactive events. "They attend self improvement workshops and industrial talks which expose them to employers' expectations. Lessons include the dos and don’ts at a job interview," said Rachel.
On the question of graduates’ knowledge of current developments, she refutes the general idea that fresh graduates are ignorant of prevailing economic conditions to the point that they continue to be picky where career is concerned.
"Actually, they are worried,” noted Rachel. “If they can get a job in the field they have studied in, that’s good. But if the graduates are diverted from the industry that they are planning to join, and if there’s an alternative way forward, they are willing to go for it."
"They know that being choosy does not get them anywhere, but having the right experience will get them somewhere. Of course, those who can afford it may also opt to complement their qualifications with postgraduate or professional certificates."
Another common complaint about fresh graduates is their poor communication skills, particularly in English. Rachel dispelled the idea that all fresh graduates have poor communication skills. “The medium of instruction in high school can be a factor affecting grasp of communication skills. However, it cannot be a yardstick to gauge each fresh graduate as individuals evolve differently," said Rachel.
"Degrees in computer science or biotechnology, for example, commonly require a student to handle objects such as computers or lab equipment. Unless one plans to teach later on, these fields tend to attract reserved individuals who are more passionate about solving a problem than talking about it. It is in accordance with the nature of the subject itself."
"ICSJ firmly believes in allowing individuals to grow by creating awareness and providing avenues for self-development. We do not want them to conform to a stereotype hence our students, regardless of the level of programme, are required to make group or solo presentations every semester. I have no doubts that if they had walked in with less than admirable communication skills, they will certainly leave with enhanced communication skills."
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