Kick start your Career as an Undergraduate
My career in Software Engineering has taken so many interesting turns, and I thought it great to share how I was able to kick start it. Oh, and not to mention I am currently an undergraduate in my 4th year, at the best institution in West Africa (2019 Times Higher Education Ranking).
On getting into the College, chances are that what everyone around you is saying will sound like “Hey just make sure you read your books, study hard and don’t get distracted” This is absolutely correct. From your first year in college you should be prepared to lay a solid foundation for your CGPA (A 5.0 GPA is highly recommended😉). So, if you’re in your first year and reading this, this may be a good place to stop reading.
I’m not saying getting a good grade in a STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) program is irrelevant, but the real question is what technical skills do you actually have? How many projects have you completed? Many people who graduate with a degree in Computer Science do not know how to code or complete projects -proficiently in a programming language. Isn’t that appalling? It makes much more sense to develop yourself in the right direction, during this stage of your life. As an engineering student, what skills are required in your field? How many certifications have you acquired so far? Do not let complacency lure you into believing that there is still time. Do you know that there are other students out there in advanced parts of the world, who have technical experience enough to employ them even while still in school? (I’ve met a few! 😮)
Kick starting your career as an undergraduate is very important. If it requires you taking online courses, be 100% consistent in 1 desired path. Do you want to learn how to code so that you can apply for a software development internship? There are more than enough reliable sources on the internet. Whatever you do as a student, Strive to gain experience every school year during any break you have. Apply for internship programs while you also develop your skills and competencies.
At the end of your college education, you will be shocked at how many career development resources you have utilized even before formally entering the job market! To learn more about undergraduate career development and my experience visiting some universities in America, join me this September at The Big 10 , it it will be a fantastic session. Thank you for reading!
