After I had thoroughly exhausted updating my LinkedIn profile, a pop-up question still asked: What did you do at Kenyatta University? I was in my fourth year, and it was at that moment when it dawned on me that I hadn't done enough. And I possibly couldn't. During our last year at college much of what we could achieve had already been, and we are simply following a predestined path.
What was remaining was simply to try and sum up the things I did, and those I could, to make my campus life a truly worthwhile experience.
1. Do more than a single course.
Most universities now offer short courses, minor degrees or free foreign language options that could really boost our chances of standing out in our near future. In KU, there's a certificate of leadership programme, free chinese language options and even minor degrees at an affordable fee. All these, coupled with excellent performance, could ignite your uniqueness in trying to advance in your career after you graduate.
For example, knowledge in Chinese could land you a scholarship in China. Leadership certificate could qualify you to lead the numerous youth organisations and a minor degree could raise your odds of securing paid internship at a research institute.
2. Gain Experience through Internships
I realised that the four three-months holidays could actually translate into 1 year of relevant experience in your specialty. However, most students only go for the compulsory internships during their third year in college. This makes them become part of thousands of other graduates who will try looking for a job without having the minimum 1 year experience.
It is also good to seek internships in different sectors of the same industry, as this will broaden your understanding of your area of specialisation. Try to innovate and create solutions for the companies you "work" for- without asking for anything in return. Always document your internship reports in a professional way, and measure your gradual improvements in terms of skills gained. Do not look for industrial attachments for the sake of experience alone.
3. Do Professional Papers
There are some selected courses that require necessary complimentary papers that create a sense of competence. Such courses include Accounting, Procurement; Actuarial Science and Industrial/Analytical Chemistry.
Save money and do them soon enough, otherwise your degree will appear worthless and you'll end up competing with holders of diplomas and certificates.
Complimentary papers for analytical| Industrial chemistry include professional courses that can be accessed from SGS and Bureau Veritas Academies.
4. Become a member of a Professional Society.
This will improve your networking, easily secure you with a job or internship and provide you with a lot of important information. More so, you'll have access to developments in your industries and solutions to challenges you're likely to face.
For chemical and industrial analysts, relevant society in Kenya include: Kenya Chemical Society and the National Quality Institute.
5. Do a Research Project or Publish a Paper
As today's approach to many solutions is through research, this will surely increase your odds of success in your career. Publishing becomes easier if you're already a member of a professional body. Most importantly, this will win you scholarships as you plan to continue with your master's degree.
