If you are starting your studies in IT for the first time, you might feel intimidated by the new environment. Meanwhile, students who are already a few years into their degree might start to think about internships or graduate programs. With the increasing competitiveness of the IT industry, a degree is unfortunately not enough for applicants to stand out. Because of this, IT students are now feeling more pressure to make the most out of their degree so that they can have the best chances of securing a job once they are finished with their studies and ready to enter the workforce.
For students seeking to make the most of their IT degree, there is a world of opportunities that they can participate in.
Volunteering and Extracurriculars
Volunteering and extracurriculars can be incredibly valuable and rewarding experiences. Not only can you learn important interpersonal skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, but it can also be a great way to meet new people with similar interests. Additionally, participating in these opportunities gives you a chance to be a part of a community that uplifts and supports their members.
Volunteering is a great way for students to give back to their community. These experiences can also show employers your commitment, proactiveness and dedication.
Personal Projects
When employers look at a resume, personal projects are always great to see. This shows that an applicant has gone out of their way to improve their knowledge and skill. While at university, try to find some free time to work on side projects, whether it’s learning a new coding language, completing a certification, or developing some new software. If you find the right project, these can be fun hobbies instead of extra work.
Networking
While at university, there are many chances for you to expand your network. Having a strong network is essential when entering the workforce as it opens doors to exciting new job opportunities that you might never expect. For many students, networking can be daunting, but the more events you go to and the more you put yourself out there, the less scary it becomes. You might even begin to enjoy meeting new people with similar backgrounds and interests.
For students just starting their career, start small by taking the step to speak to new people in your classes or on campus. This can be a great chance to make friends with other students. You could also take the chance to speak to introduce yourself to your tutors and lecturers; Remember that they are always there to support your studies.
Once you’re ready, think about attending networking events. Universities have some great events and opportunities for their students to attend and these can be great for anyone who is just beginning to grow their network. If you’re interested in attending IT-related events, the Australian Computer Society has plenty open for their members. These can be a chance for you to learn more about the industry while also expanding your network.
Internships
Perhaps the best way for a student to get some hands-on experience and build their network is through internships. Most universities have job boards or resources that allow students to find an internship relevant to their degree. Some universities might even have compulsory courses with Work-Integrated Learning components. Students should use every resource available to them to secure a placement as it may even lead to a graduate role once their degree is complete.
The ACS Foundation offers graduate roles and internships across Australia to assist STEM students in breaking into and gaining valuable experience in a highly competitive industry.
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